Editorial: People are pivotal

And this edition, which includes the story of David (DJ) and four other New Zealand Winegrowers Fellows - Neal and Judy Ibbotson, Mal McLennon and Peter Holley - is evidence of how pivotal some individuals have been to the success of this country's wine industry.

New Zealand Winegrowers Chair Clive Jones says the Fellows award recognises "modern pioneers", who've made an extraordinary contribution beyond their own business, for the betterment of the industry at large. "Thanks to their hard work, our industry punches above its weight on the world stage."

They're not the only champions celebrated in this edition, which includes the "Pinot Pioneers" of Wairarapa, whose bold aspirations helped transform a quiet rural region into vibrant wine country. We also profile mover, sharer and educator Cath Archer, Wairarapa winemaker Wilco Lam, and Chardonnay legend Michael Brajkovich, who is this month's Passion Project profile.

While celebrating its pioneers, this is an industry that also works hard to shine a light on the next generation of pivotal people, including the Tonnellerie de Mercurey Young Winemaker of the Year, with its National Final coming up, and New Zealand's new Viticulturist of the Year, won by Tai Nelson, who graces this edition's cover.

Sophie Preece

EDITOR