On April 2, 2025, renowned television host and wine aficionado Graham Norton embarked on a unique journey to Marlborough, New Zealand, to delve into the winemaking process with Invivo Wines’ Cofounders Tim Lightbourne and Rob Cameron. This experience allowed Norton to get hands-on with grape picking, taste juice samples, and assess fruit quality for the upcoming twelfth vintage of his GN Sauvignon Blanc.
Reflecting on the evolution of his partnership with Invivo, Norton expressed his admiration for New Zealand’s Sauvignon Blanc and the growth of his wine brand into a global success story. Since its inception in 2014 with a single New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, the collaboration has expanded to encompass ten products and over 300 accolades, establishing GN Wines as a top-selling brand in multiple markets worldwide.
Invivo Cofounder and Winemaker Rob Cameron highlighted Norton’s active involvement in the winemaking process, emphasizing his personal touch in tasting, blending, and approving every vintage to match his taste preferences. Norton’s visit to Marlborough was a significant moment for both parties, strengthening their bond and mutual commitment to crafting exceptional wines.
The culmination of Norton’s visit was a winemaker’s lunch at Harvest Restaurant in Rapaura, where he was honored by the Mayor of Marlborough and local growers with the prestigious ‘Grape Ambassador’ Award. This recognition underscored Norton’s advocacy for Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and his contribution to elevating the region’s profile on the global stage.
GN Sauvignon Blanc, a flagship product of GN Wines, is readily available in retail outlets, wine shops, and restaurants across New Zealand, reflecting the brand’s widespread popularity and consumer demand. Norton’s dedication to quality and innovation has propelled GN Wines to achieve commercial success in key markets, with notable growth in the UK, Ireland, and the USA.
Established in 2008 by school friends Tim Lightbourne and Rob Cameron, Invivo has emerged as a trailblazing winery in New Zealand, known for its innovative approach to winemaking. The company’s collaborations with industry icons like Graham Norton and Sarah Jessica Parker have garnered international acclaim, with over 350 wine show medals and exports to 43 countries.
Graham Norton’s illustrious career spans multiple accolades in television, literature, and entertainment, solidifying his status as a multifaceted talent and cultural icon. From hosting the iconic “The Graham Norton Show” to participating in Eurovision Song Contest commentary and judging on “Ru Paul’s Drag Race,” Norton’s versatility and charisma have captivated audiences worldwide.
In addition to his television endeavors, Norton is a prolific author with several bestselling novels and memoirs to his name, showcasing his literary prowess and storytelling prowess. His latest novel, “Frankie,” received critical acclaim and further cemented Norton’s reputation as a respected voice in the literary world.
Overall, Graham Norton’s collaboration with Invivo Wines exemplifies the fusion of passion, craftsmanship, and innovation in the world of winemaking. Through his hands-on involvement and unwavering dedication to quality, Norton has contributed to the success and growth of GN Wines as a global brand, resonating with consumers and connoisseurs alike.
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