Scott Lanceley from Te Kairanga has been named the Bayer Wairarapa Young Viticulturist of the Year 2018.
Lanceley has been runner-up the last few years, or in his own words “always the bridesmaid”, so was thrilled to finally take out the title after studying hard over the last few weeks.
Ben McNab-Jones from Matahiwi came second and Alex Muir from Drummond came third.
There were five contestants in total and Jess Stringer also from Matahiwi and Georgie Warren from Poppies both said they will return next year.
“It is great to see more women in the region step up to the challenge and see viticulture as an exciting career opportunity” says Nicky Grandorge, National Co-Ordinator.
Lanceley actually competed in the National Final in 2015, when Mark Langlands who won the regional competition that year, was overseas and unable to compete. This has given Lanceley a taste of what’s in store and he’s really looking forward to the challenge and representing his region again.
The National Final is being held in Wairarapa for the very first time this year so he is sure to have a lot of local support during the build-up to the competition as well as on the day.
The National Final will be held at Palliser Estate on 27th August and the winner will be announced at the Bragato dinner on 30th August in Wellington.
The National winner receives an amazing prize package including a Hyundai Kona for a year, $5000 AGMARDT Travel Grant, $2000 cash, Bahco golden secateurs, glassware and a leadership week where the winner travels around New Zealand to meet influential people from the within the wine industry as well as leaders from other industries.
