Young Vits
At the top of their field In the lead up to the Corteva Young Viticulturist of the Year National Final 2021, we get to know a bit about the regional finalists from around the country. Albie Feary Machinery and Vineyard Operator at Ata Rangi, Wairarapa. What brought you to viticulture? I was drawn to viticulture because of my love of plants and the changing seasons, as well as the intrigue that winemaking held for me. I wanted a life that was connected to growing something from the soil, and the grapevine is an incredible perennial that so clearly shows what a place is capable of. What do you enjoy most about your work? I love my field of work because it’s incredibly gratifying, dynamic and connecting. I am lucky to have a hand in the soil (or in my case often the tractor wheel) and a hand in the fermenter. Having balance between vineyard and winery
“A career in viticulture is a lifelong learning experience surrounded by good people and good wine.” Courtney Sang
is important to me, and learning from the greats here at Ata Rangi is a real privilege. We have a lot of fun and the community vibes are solid here. What are the most exciting developments in your field? And the most exciting developments in your region’s wine industry? Being a dynamic industry, the exciting developments in
Albie Feary
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the Wairarapa are closely linked to treading lightly on our piece of dirt and how in turn we can grow better quality grapes for a better economic outcome. More and more, the conversations around soil health and vine health are being discussed and acted upon. It’s great to see how we are moving away from the macro and delving into the micro as to how each particular soil site needs different care. This is particularly true in terms of restricted use of water as a precious resource as well as cover crops planted between rows for fostering tiny microbial livestock beneath the ground. There’s also a movement of ‘soft pruning’ techniques regarding important pruning decisions that are sympathetic to sap flow which are helping to prolong vine life and reduce spray and labour inputs. Sum up a career in viticulture in 10 words or fewer.
A lifelong learning experience surrounded by good people and good wine.
Courtney Sang Assistant Winemaker and Vineyard Supervisor at Obsidian Wines, Waiheke Island What brought you to viticulture? I began my career as a chemical engineer, but after a quarter-life crisis I decided to join the wine industry and so completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Wine Science from the University of Auckland. I haven’t looked back and have loved being around vines and wines ever since.
“The vine is always right.”