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: Scott Lancely
Age: 27
Occupation: Vineyard and Operations Worker for Craggy Range - Martinborough
How long have you worked in Martinborough?
For six years, two years firstly as a contract worker and was fortunate enough to be in the right place at the right time to land a full time job at Craggy Range, starting as a general vineyard worker then moving into operations. Before vineyards I was in hospitality around the Wairarapa.
What brought you to Martinborough?
I originally lived in Wellington city until I was 10, then moved to the Wairarapa with my family. It's a fantastic region to grow up in if you enjoy the outdoors and making your own fun without the city amenities.
Where have you travelled in wine to get here?
Apart from visiting places throughout New Zealand, the Hawke's Bay in particular, I haven't travelled to any other regions of the world. Although I hope to change that soon!
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I love working outdoors and taking on the challenges of the weather in the Wairarapa, well known for wet and windy times but beautiful hot summer days. I don't think I could go back to working indoors. The challenge of producing the best possible grapes season to season in variable conditions is what I love most though.
What do you enjoy most about Martinborough?
The country living lifestyle, producing some of the best wines and produce that can only be good for you. With a promising future for our wine industry I am excited to be living and working here, and I couldn't think of a better place to raise my children.
When you're not making wine or growing grapes?
I spend time with family and studying towards my Bachelor of Viticulture Degree. I am quite social so I spend a lot of down time with friends. It's another reason to love the vineyard scene, meeting and talking to so many people from all over the world.
It sucks when....
You run outa gas on the other side of the vineyard, it's a long walk of shame.
Your favourite wine?
I have a major thing for Hawke's Bay Syrah at the moment. I cannot get enough of it and it's some of the best wine coming out of this country, full stop.
Which wine region excites you most right now?
I can't really single out a particular region. I think New Zealand as a whole is getting bigger and better every year as a serious contender of fine wine production globally, with signature wines from all our regions punching hard and making waves.
Future aspirations?
One day owning my own vineyard. It would become the place to raise my children and grandchildren. A slice of paradise for the future generations.
