2007 Young Viticulturist of the Year

25 July, 2007

Corbans Viticulture is proud to become a sponsor of the 2007 Young Viticulturist of the Year Awards. “Investment in the future of the New Zealand vine and wine industry is a key part of Corbans Viticulture’s company philosophy and strategic business plan”, says Dennis Lunken, Chief Executive Officer. “The sponsorship of these awards endorses our commitment to the future of our wine industry”, adds Lunken.

These awards provide an excellent opportunity for young viticulturists to put to the test their viticulture knowledge and skills. Last year’s winner of this Award, Marcus Wickham, was also awarded the supreme New Zealand Horticulturist of the Year Award, ahead of eight other category winners. “I think this kind of event is fantastic for the industry. It gives younger managers and viticulturists something to aspire to. As the event gathers momentum I am sure that it be become a title that is hotly contested and sought after by all young viticulturists in New Zealand”, comments Wickham.

Judging of the Young Viticulturist of the Year Award takes place from 21 July to 4 August 2007. The first finalist was selected at the weekend, Nigel Sowman, viticulturist at Dog Point Vineyards won the first heat in Marlborough. Other finalists will be selected from the other main sub-regions which include; Hawke’s Bay, Rest of the North Island, Central Otago and Rest of the South Island. The five winners of the regional finals will all compete at the national finals, to be held at Villa Maria on Saturday 25 August. From the finalists the top three entrants will be selected with the overall winner announced at the Bragato Wine Awards Gala Dinner to be held on the same night.

The winner of the 2007 Young Viticulturist of the Year Award will go onto participate in the prestigious Young Horticulturist of the Year.

For further information please contact Jo Hooker at Corbans Viticulture on 09 416 8635 or jo@corbansviticulture.co.nz