Jenny Dobson, Hall of Fame Recipient 2026
In 2026, we celebrate Jenny Dobson, whose skill, curiosity and generosity have made a lasting contribution to Hawke’s Bay wine. Her induction into the Hawke’s Bay Wine Hall of Fame recognises a distinguished career as a winemaker, consultant, innovator and mentor.
Born in Mangakino, Jenny’s interest in wine began around the family dinner table, encouraged by her father. After completing a chemistry degree, she travelled to France at just 22, beginning a journey that would take her from the cellars of Burgundy to the estates of Bordeaux.
At a time when women were rarely welcomed into winemaking roles, Jenny’s determination and enthusiasm helped her overcome barriers and earn the respect of her peers. An unexpected opportunity to take over winemaking at a prestigious Bordeaux estate became a defining chapter in her career. She spent more than a decade there, becoming one of the few women working as a winemaker in the Médoc.
After a period in Western Australia, Jenny returned to New Zealand in the mid-1990s. Drawn by its red wine pedigree and potential, she chose to make her home in Te Matau-a-Māui, Hawke’s Bay, bringing extensive experience and a deep understanding of the traditions of French winemaking.
Since then, Jenny has helped shape the wines of notable Hawke’s Bay brands and worked alongside many independent producers as a consultant. Through her own label, Jenny Dobson Wines, she continues to explore new varieties, styles and techniques, combining experience with a willingness to experiment.
Her contribution extends well beyond the wines she has made. Jenny served on the New Zealand Society for Viticulture and Oenology committee for 25 years and has generously shared her knowledge and time, mentoring many of the winemakers helping shape Hawke’s Bay’s future.
We proudly welcome Jenny Dobson into the Hawke’s Bay Wine Hall of Fame, recognising her achievements, her pioneering spirit and her enduring contribution to our wine community.
Jenny Dobson, Hawke’s Bay Wine Hall of Fame 2026
Photo: Florence Charvin
