Sean Spratt
Owner & Winemaker
“Consistent quality and an unwavering focus on making one of the best cabernet blends in the world is what the Destiny Bay brand is all about. No exceptions. No excuses.”
In addition to serving as the Winemaker, Sean is responsible for managing the diverse elements of Destiny Bay’s business; from grape growing and winemaking through to distribution and patron support. A Bachelor of Fine Arts graduate of DePaul University, Sean pursued his wine science studies through the University of California at Davis extension program, sensory training through Auckland University’s Wine Science program, and in-depth meetings with some of California’s most iconic winemakers and wineries. His extensive business and technical experience, combined with his passion for wine, bring a unique perspective to crafting elegant Cabernet blends which have received critical acclaim that rivals French First Growths, Italian Super Tuscans and Australian and Californian cult wines.
Ann M. Spratt
Proprietor and Co-Founder
“Advancements in viticulture and enology are taking place at a phenomenal rate. Staying at the forefront is vital to our success. We are always learning, always finding better ways to do things, always improving our methods and practices.”
Ann holds a degree in Microbiology and Biochemistry, has completed post-graduate studies at UC Davis in viticulture and enology and holds a Masters degree in Wine Sciences from Auckland University. The founder of Destiny Bay Vineyards realized her dream of combining science, art and craft to produce a world-class wine. Ann oversees Destiny Bay’s modern wine laboratory and supports winemaking decisions with extensive research and analysis.
Michael F. Spratt
Proprietor and Co-Founder
“Our long term commitment is to make wines that express this place and inspire our patrons, no matter the costs. Some things are just more important than money.”
A former merger and acquisition consultant and partner with PricewaterhouseCoopers and The Rubicon Group, Mike contributes a rare level of business acumen to the creative enterprise of winemaking. Mike has served as president of the Waiheke Winegrowers Association and on the board of New Zealand Wine Growers. He is also an author and speaker on wine industry issues.
Daniel A. Sullivan
Vineyard Manager
“Mother Nature is a challenging partner. The only fruit that survives until harvest must be very special. Nothing goes into our winery unless it meets our unforgiving standards for character, complexity and varietal ripeness.”
Dan brings nearly two decades of experience to the viticulture and winemaking team. Prior to joining Destiny Bay, Dan was the assistant winemaker and vineyard manager for one of the oldest and most respected vineyards and winery operations on Waiheke Island. He has studied viticulture and enology at the Eastern Institute of Technology in Hawkes Bay, and has instituted viticultural practices that established Destiny Bay as Waiheke Island’s first fully certified “Sustainable Winegrowing Vineyard & Winery”.
Ara Macgregor
Assistant Winemaker
“There are no details in winemaking that escape our attention. Our consistent quality is the result of doing things others just don’t bother to do.”
Ara has been a part of the Destiny Bay team for more than a decade. As Assistant Winemaker, Ara is responsible for ensuring that all winemaking, blending, aging and packaging operations meet Destiny Bay’s exacting quality standards. Ara manages the day-to-day wine laboratory operations including microbiological culturing and analysis, and spectrophotometric wine analysis.
Ara has studied Grapegrowing and Winemaking at Eastern Institute of Technology in Hawkes Bay.
Ella Meckel-Kritos
Operations & Logistics Manager
Ella joined Destiny Bay after spending nearly a decade in the hospitality and service industry on Waiheke, including management of the Island’s only resort.
Her experience includes managing private functions, corporate events, full administrative support to a business, supply chain management and resolving complex operational issues to ensure that a business runs efficiently and effectively.
Ella is responsible for all customer support, global logistics and final packaging and distribution of Destiny Bay wine.
Stephen Joll
Assistant Vineyard Manager
Stephen joined Destiny Bay after spending more than a decade in the viticulture and horticulture industry on Waiheke Island.
Stephen is responsible for overseeing all temporary staff in the vineyard, ensuring that the spray programme is completed efficiently and safely, coordinating the maintenance and repair of all vineyard rolling stock and equipment and consulting with the Vineyard Management on crop estimates, viticultural practices and site management.
Zoe Xiong
Sales Manager
“Destiny Bay is a small family owned and operated business that shares my values. We produce rare and highly regarded wines for customers searching for something very special. I am excited and honoured to be Destiny Bay’s voice for our growing community of Asian wine collectors and enthusiasts.”
Zoe Xiong is Special Assistant to the Owners of Destiny Bay. Zoe joined Destiny Bay to manage relationships with customers in Mainland China, Hong Kong and New Zealand. Zoe’s experience in the tourism industry in China cultivated her passion for authentic customer experiences.