Philip Gregan Named 2026 NZ Winegrowers Fellow
For the past 35 years, Philip Gregan has helped select New Zealand Winegrowers Fellows, working with the board to choose a cohort of extraordinary industry champions.
Two Paddocks Winemaker Dean Shaw stood up on behalf of the late and legendary Sam Neill, bringing the audience to their feet.
From stalwarts to young guns, the event also celebrated the industry's new talent, with the finalists for the Ormond Young Viticulturist of the Year giving their speeches during the event, sharing what their generation is doing to shape the future of the wine industry.
"We can't go with the way things have always been done," said Kris Godsall from Cloudy Bay in Marlborough. "We need to respect the experience behind us, whilst still having the courage to improve."
Kris was announced as the winner of the national competition, while Nick Lamain from Isabel Estate in Marlborough took home the title of Tonnellerie de Mercurey Young Winemaker of the Year.
"I got so much out of this competition, Nick says, urging his peers to push through what can be an overwhelming first attempt.
"I really want more young people in the wine industry to recognise how much they can get out of it."
