Young Viticulturist of the Year 2025 finalists announced
Five regional finalists are honing their skills for the national final of the 2025 Young Viticulturist of the Year, to be held at Greystone in Waipara on 27 August.
The Good
Weather conditions this vintage favoured a spectacular ripening period. Rainfall was far below average in January, February and March, with plenty of sun to boot.
The Bad
Yields were low, perhaps because of last year's funny business (Cyclone Gabrielle). Instances of sunburn and dehydration were high - the Batch vineyard team went through exactly 4.5 litres of sunscreen, not to mention the aloe vera gel.
The Awesome
Here's what to expect from the 2024 vintage from Batch and perhaps Waiheke in general: the Bordeaux is inky and purple and plummy with bold tannins; the Syrah is perfumed and electric purple with amazing structure; the Chardonnay shows bright citrus flavours and punchy acidity. This was a quality over quantity vintage, so get 'em while ya can.
