HAIL THE YOUNG VITS

We see them in the vineyards, mostly after harvest pruning and tying down the canes for the next season’s growth, but the work of a viticulturist is significantly more than this. The role of a viticulturist is to understand and manage soil health, weed control, reduce the threat or impacts of disease pressure and maintain the general health of grape vines. A love of the land definitely helps, too, and this is what underpins Tahryn Mason’s drive to be the best in his field. He is the 2022 Corteva Young Viticulturist of the Year winner. “This competition has been the driving force and making of my career,” says Mason. The competition helps grow ‘Young Vits’ by giving them support, focus and opportunities to upskill and widen their networks. As part of the competition, finalists had to research and share their ideas on how to reduce tractor passes and carbon emissions in the vineyards they work, linking with the Toitū & Technology Viti Conference and Field Day run in conjunction with the national final.