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.
Finalist, Darren Fahey has been nominated by his peers in the Australian wine industry and acknowledges that most wine drinkers don't know what a viticulturist does, being more interested in what wine makers produce and what it tastes like!
"Wine makers have always been the rock stars, but I am honoured to be recognised by my peers in this way," he said.
"Viticulture is about growing the grapes, and all things from the soil up. 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."
The ASVO Awards for Excellence recognise the contribution and achievements of dedicated researchers and innovators in the Australian wine industry.
Darren took on his current role at NSW DPI in 2014, following over a decade of experience in the wine industry. Since then, he's been focused on maximising profitability and sustainability outcomes for producers all over NSW.
While recent seasons have been challenging with drought, fire, rain and COVID-19, Darren says he is optimistic and passionate about the future of the NSW wine industry and its ability to bounce back and innovate.
"The NSW wine industry is spread across more than 14 regions with different climates, different soil types and different areas.
"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."
The nomination places Fahey squarely in the frame of wine industry heavyweights who have previously taken out the prestigious award. Winners of the ASVO Awards for Excellence will be announced on Wednesday, November 17.
