The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) has congratulated one of its Viticulture Development Officers on being announced as a finalist in the Australian Society of Viticulture and Oenology (ASVO) 2021 Viticulturist of the Year awards.
In a statement, the Department said the ASVO Awards for Excellence recognised the contribution and achievements of dedicated researchers and innovators in the Australian wine industry.
It said Viticulture Development Officer, Darren Fahey (pictured) had spent almost two decades focused on maximising profitability and sustainability outcomes for wine producers all over NSW.
“The nomination places Fahey squarely in the frame of wine industry heavyweights who have previously taken out the prestigious award,” NSW DPI said.
Mr Fahey said wine makers had always been the rock stars, but he was honoured to be recognised by his peers with the ASVO nomination.
“Viticulture is about growing the grapes and all things from the soil up,” he said.
“We’re involved in the growth stage, disease management, the picking and quality control; there is a lot of work before we get to the winemaking.
“Realistically, and holistically, a viticulturist needs to understand what the wine makers are looking for, what they are trying to achieve in the vineyard and what they want to put out to the public.”
Mr Fahey said while recent seasons had been challenging due to drought, fire, rain and COVID-19, he was optimistic and passionate about the future of the NSW wine industry.
“The NSW wine industry is spread across more than 14 regions with different climates, different soil types and different areas,” he said.
“Anything from some of the best sparkling wine out of Tumbarumba, all the way up to full body red wines out of the Riverina, and anywhere in between, our diversity makes NSW wine unique,” Mr Fahey said.
Winners of the ASVO Awards for Excellence are to be announced on 17 November.
