Hailing from Oregon and a distinguished alumna of Stanford University, Jen Parr brings a wealth of international winemaking experience to the forefront, spanning the globe from the USA to France, South Africa, and Australia. With a remarkable journey that encompasses 17 harvests in New Zealand and a total of 30 vintages, Jen Parr has emerged as a notable figure in the world of winemaking.
During her tenure in Otago, Jen assumed the role of head winemaker for Olssens, a position she held from 2009 to 2014, which eventually evolved into Terra Sancta. Her wines have consistently graced the esteemed pages of wine and food publications, often securing spots on Top 10 lists. A remarkable achievement came in 2012 when Jen received 5 Trophies for her Pinot Noir and Pinot Noir Rosé, including the coveted 'Champion Wine of Show' distinction. This feat marked her as the first winemaker to earn the prestigious 'Champion Winemaker Award' at the revered New Zealand International Wine Show.
Subsequently joining the Valli team, Jen's impact on the wines' recognition has remained resounding. In 2018, she earned the title of Winemaker of the Year in the NZ International Aromatics Competition, showcasing her prowess with aromatic varietals. She further solidified her reputation by being nominated as one of six finalists in the Gourmet Traveller WINE New Zealand Winemaker of the Year in 2019. The pinnacle of her achievements came in 2020, as she was named New Zealand Winemaker of the Year—an honor that recognized her unparalleled dedication to her craft.
Beneath her commitment to producing consistently exceptional and site-specific wines, Jen is a visionary who thrives on exploration and innovation. Her expertise extends to areas such as skin contact Pinot Gris, groundbreaking fermentation techniques, and the art of earlier grape picking to enhance freshness while moderating alcohol content.
Beyond her winemaking prowess, Jen's enthusiasm for sharing her passion is boundless. An accomplished Wine Judge, she tirelessly imparts knowledge about the diverse facets of wine and its boundless pleasures. Her contributions are further amplified through her active involvement in the local wine community. She has served as the Chairperson for the Central Otago Pinot Noir Celebration on two occasions and was among the select group of mentors in the Women in Wine's Pilot Mentor Programme in 2018. Her organizational contributions to the National and Central Otago Winemakers Workshops underline her commitment to nurturing future winemaking talent.
Jen Parr's journey has led her back to Central Otago, where her heart and passion reside. Collaborating with the esteemed Grant Taylor, she plays an instrumental role in crafting what she firmly believes are New Zealand's most exhilarating Pinot Noirs under the banner of Valli. In the world of winemaking, Jen Parr's story shines as a testament to excellence, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of refining the art of turning grapes into exceptional wines.
