Who We Are
Whale Islands was established in 2013. The brand is now in the capable hands of wine veteran Ross Burney. Ross has a long career in the wine industry, spanning four decades, and Whale Islands is a representation of a life's work.
Sustainability
At Whale Islands we aim to generate positive impact in the wine sector by embedding sustainability into our team and business strategy, aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
We balance people, planet and profit through a holistic approach, using innovation to solve problems and embed positive impact into our everyday winemaking practices.
Meet the Team
The people behind Whale Islands—bringing you the finest New Zealand wine, crafted with passion and shared with the world.
Steve Bird
Wine Maker
Steve's journey in winemaking started in 1978, with an after school job at the sole local winery which quickly paved his passion and career in winemaking. After studying in Australia and completing an internationally recognised degree in wine science, he returned to his homeland where he joined New Zealand's burgeoning wine industry.
Ross Burney
Australia & NZ
Ross has had a very successful career as a wine and spirits guru, leading teams for the likes of Pernod Ricard, Wolf Blass, and been a successful investor in several NZ wineries. With this wealth of experience, Ross has been able to create his latest masterpiece. Whale Islands.
Emmy
Vineyard Assistant
Emmy helps out around the vineyards and makes sure the winemakers and viticulture guys are doing a good job. Thanks Emmy.
Akino Myoi
Japan
Akino studied in New Zealand and graduated from Auckland's Massey University. Since returning to Japan, Akino has held various marketing and sales roles within the cosmetics and food and beverage sectors. Akino lives in beautiful Yokohama with her Husband and Daughter.
Steve Almaraz
USA
Steve has over three decades of expertise in distribution, sales, and marketing, & is a seasoned industry leader and founder. Steve's journey includes pivotal roles such as Vice President of Sales at Firestone Walker Brewing, Director of Craft Category at Reyes Beer Division, and as President of Figueroa Mountain Brewing. Steve's extensive background also encompasses 7 years in wine, beer, and spirits sales management at Wine Warehouse. Steve is also a certified Cicerone.
Grant Humphrey
Asia & Europe
Grant has been based in Japan since 1994. His focus has been building relationships & assisting foreign manufacturers enter and grow into Asian and more recently European markets. His efforts have culminated in the successful distribution of products across an expansive network of over 30,000 retail outlets.
Dan Holland
Special Advisor
Dan Holland is a veteran beverage executive with decades of experience across distribution, brand development, and market expansion. Formerly President of Mission Beverage Company and later President and CEO of Rising Beverage Company, he has helped guide numerous brands through successful growth in the U.S. market. Dan advises the company on strategic expansion and distribution.
Questions or want to get in touch? Contact us