They will proudly represent their regions as they compete for the title of Bayer Young Viticulturist of the Year 2015, next week.

The National Finalists are:

• Mike Winter – Central Otago
• Caleb Dennis – Hawke’s Bay
• Matt Duggan – Marlborough
• Scott Lanceley – Wairarapa

The Finals are held in conjunction with Bragato, this year being held in Hawkes Bay.  The competition will run over three days.

Spectators are welcome to support the contestants on 25 August as they undertake the tough practical questions as well as the fun, but challenging Biostart Hortysports.  This will take place at Te Awa Winery, Hawkes Bay from 9 am-1.30 pm.  The Hortysports competition and a complimentary sausage sizzle are courtesy of Fruitfed Supplies, at 12.15 pm.

The contestants then have theory questions and interviews set by key wine industry leaders.  A quick fire buzzer round will take place at 9.45 am on Thursday 27 August at Bragato and finally the contestants will deliver speeches in front of over 400 key wine industry delegates at the Bragato Wine Awards dinner that evening.

A tough, but exciting competition, which develops the skills, confidence and knowledge of New Zealand’s up and coming young viticultural professionals.  The organisers say that the title of Bayer Young Viticulturist of the Year is well deserved after excelling in these in depth challenges.

As well as winning the title and trophy, the winner also wins a fantastic prize package including full use of a Hyundai Santa Fe for a whole year, $5000 travel voucher from NZSVO, $2000 cash and Spiegelau Wine Glasses donated by Winejobsonline. The winner also goes on to represent the Winegrowing Industry in the Young Horticulturist of the Year Competition in November.

Those interested can keep up to date with the Bayer Young Viticulturist of the Year National Final on: Facebook:  youngviticulturist  Twitter: @nzyoungvit