Kevin and Sara Joyce and family have purchased the remaining shares in Marlborough Wine Ltd, making them 100% owners of the company that owns the Toi Toi wine brand.
“This is a very exciting time for our family as we look to invest further in the company and propel it into its next phase of growth in the USA and Europe,” says owner Kevin Joyce.
The Toi Toi wine brand was established in 2006 by two New Zealand couples, Kevin and Sara Joyce and Andrew and Julie Bonner. Over the past 10 years, Toi Toi has grown into one of New Zealand’s top 25 wineries and has become recognised globally for its Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and Central Otago Pinot Noir. It has found favour with wine lovers throughout New Zealand, Australia, Asia, the United States and most recently Canada. Toi Toi Wine has developed a reputation for innovation. It was the first winery to produce a Sparkling Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and a Sparkling Rosé. Recently it released a “pink” Sauvignon Blanc Rosé, a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.
“We wanted Toi Toi to remain family-owned to ensure our previous dedication to exceptional wine quality was retained,” says Sara Joyce. “Nothing will change in a practical sense, because our winemaking philosophy is still one of terroir – the best vineyards in the best New Zealand grape regions – we only make Pinot Noir from our Central Otago Clutha Vineyard, our Chardonnay from our Brunton Road, Gisborne vineyard and Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris from our Marlborough Brookdale Vineyard.”
Kevin says it’s difficult to say goodbye to Andrew and Julie Bonner, who have decided to slow down and change their lifestyle. “Toi Toi’s success would not have been possible without them. Their focus and dedication has helped grow Toi Toi into one of New Zealand’s top wineries. Sara and I wish them all the best for the future,” he says.
Marlborough Wine Ltd is an export focused company with 83% of its sales from overseas. It is a top five New Zealand family Sauvignon Blanc brand in Australia and Kevin and Sara plan to grow the export market. Kevin believes there are good opportunities in the USA, where they are planning to appoint more state distributors and in Europe where they are building a foothold.
