Winner announced in 2007 Young Viticulturist of the Year

27 August, 2007

Hawke’s Bay viticulturist, Emma Taylor, was announced as the recipient of the prestigious Young Viticulturist of the Year Award at the Bragato Wine Awards Gala Dinner held on Saturday night in Auckland.

The five finalists were tested on pruning skills, general viticulture knowledge, budgeting skills, ability to produce a SWNZ sustainable site plan, machinery skills and general knowledge. In a closely fought competition Emma Taylor won all but one of the sections during the day and came through nine points ahead of her nearest rival, Nigel Sowman.

Emma has a Masters in Physical Geography from Otago University and has worked in viticulture at Villa Maria since 2000, currently in a role as Research Viticulturist. She also chairs the Hawke’s Bay Focus Vineyard committee.

Emma now goes onto compete in the Young Horticulturist of the Year title, won last year by Marcus Wickham who was the 2006 winner of the Young Viticulturist of the Year Award. All members of the New Zealand viticulture industry have their fingers crossed for a repeat of last years win. Good luck Emma!

Andrew Curtis, organiser of the event, is proud of the growth in the event in such a short time. However he says ‘if these Awards are to continue to grow, we need increased support from the wine industry, corporate businesses and growers alike.’ Andrew would also like to thank the key sponsors for their support; Corbans Viticulture, Water Force, Collard, Ramsey Roundwood, Markhmas MRI and Wine Jobs-On-Line.

For further information contact: Andrew Curtis - mobile (0274) 966 314 Email: curtis@hbrc.govt.nz