Doug Wisor

We Said Farewell in Style

Wednesday October 20th 2004 was a day of mourning, celebration and reflection for our incredible friend and colleague, Doug Wisor. The day brought everything. In New Zealand we have a saying of four seasons in one day, in fact Crowded House have a famous song called that. It means, well, every weather event in the same day and thats what we had. In our opening tributes to Doug, a cold deluge from the south drenched the whole crowd, our local Maori people say it is the tears from god and a blessing only paid to the very special people. Deserved. We said goodbye in our vineyard in the shadow of Te Mata Peak, joined by more than 400 people. The tributes flowed, as one would expect, as did the tears, the laughter, the emotions and later the wine. He touched many people from all walks of life and we all got to see a side of Doug that we never knew. The sense of community was tremendous, whether it be the wine community, the Te Awanga community where Doug lived, the surfing community and his friends. The day, while almost overwhelming for its occasion, was a terrific tribute to a very special young man.

Doug has left a firm signature on our wines at Craggy and we will continue the legacy. All of us at Craggy will live by that promise. I mentioned at the celebration of Dougs life that we will release a very special small batch, vineyard selection, Pinot Noir from Martinborough. We have had numerous requests from friends and colleagues around the world for this wine, please let us know if you would like some. While my great desire was to thank all personally who have supported us during this very difficult time; it is not possible, there are just too many people. However from all of us at Craggy and I am sure Dougs close friends and family, thank you very much for your messages and support. To finish I would like to share with you a poem sent to me by one of our staff who felt this could have been written just for Doug. I agree.

Do not stand at my grave and weep;
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the mornings hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.

Anonymous

Best regards

Steve Smith MW
Managing Director
Craggy Range Vineyards Ltd.