Episode 57: Richard O'Brien (@giesenwines)Episode 57: Richard O'Brien (@giesenwines)
Creative Sobriety
Richard O'Brien of Giesen Group discusses their innovative journey into non-alcoholic wines, highlighting sustainability and consumer demand. Discover how Giesen became a leader in this growing market.
43:28•25 Mar 2026
From Vineyard to Victory: Giesen's Non-Alcoholic Wine Revolution
Episode Overview
- Giesen Group's pioneering role in non-alcoholic wine production.
- The importance of consumer-led innovation in winemaking.
- Challenges faced by traditional wineries resisting change.
- Sustainable practices integrated into Giesen's production process.
- Future growth and trends in the non-alcoholic beverage market.
“"If we're putting the Giesen name on these wines, it had to be really high quality."”
What makes a recovery story truly inspiring? In this engaging episode of Creative Sobriety, Kristen Bear sits down with Richard O'Brien, the General Manager of Giesen Group, to explore the evolution of non-alcoholic wines. Richard shares the fascinating journey of Giesen, a family-owned winery from New Zealand, which has become a global leader in premium non-alcoholic wine. With an entrepreneurial spirit, the Giesen brothers embraced the modern sobriety movement early on, defying industry norms and skeptics alike.
Richard provides an insider's look at the innovative processes behind creating 0% wines, including their use of spinning cone technology and sustainable practices. The episode highlights how Giesen's dedication to quality and consumer demand has led them to be the top-selling non-alcoholic wine brand in the U.S., with ambitious plans for further growth. Kristen and Richard also discuss the broader trends in the wine industry, including the shift towards moderation and the challenges faced by traditional wineries in embracing change.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the future of non-alcoholic beverages and how they fit into a sober lifestyle. As you tune in, you'll find yourself pondering the potential of non-alcoholic wines to revolutionise social occasions and offer inclusive options for all. Whether you're a sober enthusiast or simply exploring mindful drinking, this conversation is sure to enlighten and entertain.

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