About Us
Mikael and Heikki met in 2013 at the University of Turku where, alongside their studies, they delved into brewing beer in the sauna of their student dormitory. This interest evolved into a deeper exploration of the world of beverages, eventually expanding into the world of wine. However, they didn't start experimenting with winemaking at home. Instead, when Mikael moved to New Zealand, it was a natural step to make high-quality wines from there available to all Finns.
Mikael
Mikael lives in Hawke's Bay, New Zealand, which has allowed him to build extensive contacts with the country's winemakers and has provided an excellent opportunity to discover and taste the best wines from all its wine-producing regions. This in-depth knowledge of the country's wine market, exceptional by Finnish standards, combined with extensive studies in the wine industry and previous work experience at Alko and a New Zealand winery, inspired him to establish an import company focusing on New Zealand wines.
In addition to his Master's degree in Education, Mikael's studies include the internationally recognized WSET Level 3 Award in Wines, as well as a Postgraduate Certificate in Wine Business and Innovation from the Eastern Institute of Technology in New Zealand (a postgraduate degree focusing on international wine business, marketing, and entrepreneurship). Mikael's favorite wines include Pinot Noirs from Martinborough, oaked Chardonnays from Hawke's Bay, and dessert wines of any style.
Heikki
Heikki resides in Naantali, which is also where the company was established. This location enables the efficient and systematic management of warehousing and logistics, while allowing us to maintain a broad—and when necessary, rapid—reach to customers in the Turku region and throughout Finland. Alongside his primary profession as a primary school teacher, his background includes studies in the hospitality sector, several years of sales experience across various industries, and event management. Heikki’s personal favorites include the Cabernet Francs and traditional method sparkling wines of Hawke’s Bay, as well as oak-aged Chardonnays from Martinborough. When you are looking to get your hands on premium New Zealand wines, get in touch with Heikki!
When Mikael pitched his business idea during a visit to Finland, I was immediately on board. Just a couple of days later, Kiwine was officially up and running.
Heikki
Leveraging both founders' extensive regional knowledge, a positive and outgoing outlook on life, and years of experience living in Turku, and later in Naantali and Hawke's Bay, we have successfully built a comprehensive network for connecting with customers and partners.