New Frontiers – Q&A
Bragato Research Institute Chief Executive MJ Loza has had a busy 18 months, helping drive the establishment and development of the national wine research centre, based in Blenheim.
Four contestants took part in this year’s Bayer Young Viticulturist.
They are the subject of our Young Guns.
Name: Matt Duggan
Age: 29
Occupation: Cloudy Bay, Assistant Viticulturist
How long have you worked in Marlborough?
Since Dec 2009 (minus 6 months in the UK).
What brought you to Marlborough?
A combination of the thriving wine industry and family.
Where have you travelled in wine to get here?
While I haven't worked in any other region, I have travelled to all New Zealand wine regions, as well as some in Australia, France, Spain and the UK.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The fact that my philosophies and ambitions to grow the best possible fruit and produce the best possible wine, align perfectly with those of the company – we only have one tier, and it's the top tier.
What do you enjoy most about Marlborough?
The accessibility of the outdoor pursuits that I love; fishing, diving, hunting, pretty much all sports. And the climate is pretty good too (having grown up in Wellington, it's exceptional!). That's before even mentioning the local cuisine and of course wine (the local beer is pretty good too).
When you're not making wine or growing grapes?
As above... fishing, diving, hunting, pretty much all sports, socialising with friends and spending time with family.
It sucks when....
The Hurricanes get all the way to the final, look good, I mean really good to get a win this year – after 20 years of tormenting fans. Then through some miracle, you manage to get hold of the seemingly impossible, get FINALS tickets, pay through the roof for airfares to fly to Wellington, and theeeenn, they lose! (again).
Your favourite wine?
It's difficult to pick a favourite without being biased, so I am going to be: Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc. I love how it provides me with a fantastic career, but also how it is just a cracking good wine! Nothing better than fresh Marlborough seafood paired with a chilled CB Sauvignon on a hot summer's day!
Which wine region excites you most right now?
I am genuinely excited about a sub-region in Marlborough; the Southern Valleys. Pinot Noir in this area is really starting to come into its own, as vine age develops. I think that Pinot will continue to go from strength to strength in this area, and I am excited to see it all unfold.
Future aspirations?
Continue growing exceptional fruit to make exceptional wines, and above all maintain health and happiness in all aspects of life.
Twitter @duggsonline
