Semisi Telefoni – The Wine Chief

Ofa Fainga'anuku
Jun 3
2 min read

Updated: Jun 16

From the Front Row to the First Pour

For Semisi Telefoni, wine isn’t just something in a glass — it’s a way of bringing people together.

Raised in a proud Tongan family, Semisi learned early on that true hospitality comes from the heart. His journey took him from the fields of Auckland to the stadiums in France, playing rugby at the highest level. It was there, during post-match dinners that stretched long into the night, that he discovered a new kind of connection: the stories shared over a good bottle of wine.

It was there, during post-match dinners that stretched long into the night, that he discovered a new kind of connection

Those nights sparked a curiosity that wouldn’t let go. Semisi went on to study wine in Champagne and Burgundy, tasting from barrels in some of Europe’s most iconic cellars. He didn’t just learn about wine — he fell in love with the idea that every bottle has a story, every vineyard a soul.

he fell in love with the idea that every bottle has a story, every vineyard a soul.

That’s how The Wine Chief was born.Not just a name, but a way of life. Semisi brings the same warmth and authenticity to wine that he brought to the rugby field — no pretence, no wine snobbery, just an invitation to enjoy the moment and the company.

Today, as The Wine Chief, Semisi is known for creating experiences that go beyond the glass. Whether he’s hosting a tasting, leading a tour, or curating a new selection , and building a community for Premier Ligne, his focus is always the same: making wine feel personal, welcoming, and worth sharing.