New Zealand’s 2026 Young Winemaker and Viticulturist of the Year winners revealed

The winners of the 2026 Tonnellerie de Mercurey Young Winemaker of the Year and the 2026 Young Viticulturist of the Year competitions have been revealed following a celebration dinner at Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre last night. 30-year-old Nick Lamain from Isabel Estate in Marlborough is the 2026 Young Winemaker of the Year, and 24-year-old Kris Godsall from Cloudy Bay is the 2026 Young Viticulturist of the Year. “Honestly, it still feels a little surreal. I’ve been part of this competition for the past five years, and it has challenged me, built my confidence, and played a huge role in shaping my career. To cap off tha…