2023 Young Winemaker competitions underway

The 2023 Tonnellerie de Mercurey Young Winemaker of the Year competitions are underway with events being held around the country. 

So far, Callum Haynes from Matua Wines has been named Marlborough Young Winemaker of the Year, with regional finals still to come in Central Otago and Hawke’s Bay before the National Final at the end of October.

The Young Winemaker of the Year presents New Zealand’s up and coming winemakers with a wide range of challenges that touch on all aspects of being a successful winemaker. These include laboratory skills, wine tasting, blending, industry knowledge, cellar skills, public speaking and a sales pitch.

Callum Haynes, winner of Marlborough Young Winemaker of the Year 2023

Now in its ninth year, the competition is open to those aged 30 years or younger working in any winemaking role within New Zealand.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for our future winemakers to stretch themselves as well as meet other fellow young winemakers, senior winemakers and suppliers to our industry,” says Nicky Grandorge, Leadership & Communities Manager at NZ Winegrowers and National Co-Ordinator.  “It’s a really positive environment.”

For his win as Marlborough Young Winemaker of the Year, Callum Haynes received $1,000 cash, a magnum, an educational trip sponsored by Fruitfed Supplies and the opportunity to be an Associate Judge at the Marlborough Wine Show.  He will now represent Marlborough in the National Final on 31 October at The Bone Line in Waipara, North Canterbury. 

2023 Tonnellerie de Mercurey Young Winemaker of the Year competition dates:

Marlborough, 13th September 2023 (winner Callum Haynes, Matua Wines)

Central Otago, 21st September 2023

North Island in Hawke’s Bay, 28th September 2023

National Final, 31st October – 1st November