Launched in 2015, the competition is open to young people working in wine production roles within the New Zealand wine industry. This includes cellar hands, cellar managers, those working in the laboratory, assistant winemakers, winemakers and if space allows those studying winemaking.
NEW in 2025 - extension of age and eligibility. To enter the 2025 Tonnellerie de Mercurey Young Winemaker of the Year Competition an applicant can now be:
- 30 years of age or under on 31 December or
- between 31 and 34 years of age on 31 December with less than five year's experience in wine production
The Young Winemaker competition aims to help ambitious and passionate young people become future leaders of the NZ wine industry. It is a fantastic opportunity for emerging young winemakers to grow, develop and advance their careers.
The competition tests the contestants on a wide range of skills and knowledge required in the winemaking process. For example blending, laboratory tests, viticultural knowledge, tasting analysis, Health & Safety, presentation skills and market knowledge.
The competition is made possible thanks to the generosity of our sponsors.
Young Winemakers have a huge passion for winemaking and the New Zealand wine industry. Find out what our 2024 National Finalists love about winemaking, how they see the future and what they loved about competing in the Young Winemaker Competition.
