The New Zealand and European Wine Industries
Professor Brian Jordan, Lincoln University, NZ
The NZ wine industry is relatively young in comparison to the long tradition of European wine production. Although there are many differences between European and NZ wine production, the value of investment in research and development is universally recognised to ensure sustained performance into the future. Critical to successful research and development is the effective interaction between the wine industry, research providers and government. There are, however, a number of common issues that must be addressed to develop this successful collaboration. These issues include the specific approach of government, the scientific philosophy, industry imperatives and the acceptance (or lack of) of new technology.
Greater than 60% of wine production in NZ is in the Marlborough region and the major wine produced is premium quality Sauvignon Blanc. In 2001, industry, local authorities and research/education providers presented a coherent approach to central government for funding to build a research centre in Marlborough. Government supported the proposal and in 2004 the Marlborough Wine Research Centre was officially opened. Subsequently, a major coordinated proposal from research providers and the wine industry gained long-term funding for research on Sauvignon blanc. Through this process many lessons have been learned, but it is clear that a successful platform of collaboration has been developed to support the NZ wine industry.
This presentation is focused on providing a "case study" of successful interaction to provide underpinning research to the NZ wine industry.
