Symposium
Programme
Join us 26 – 28 January 2026 in Ōtautahi Christchurch, New Zealand
Monday 26 January
Our programme on day one starts at 10.00am, allowing you time to fly / travel during the morning.
Mihi whakatau and Welcome
10.00am
Why reputation matters - Telling the NZ Story
David Downs, NZ Story
10.30am
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How Aotearoa New Zealand’s unique history and culture has created a nation of storytellers, adventurers and creatives, caring for people and place, and how our land and location had led to international recognition.
Extracting the best from a marginal climate
Nick Lane, Defined Wine
11.15am
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Managing ambitions
Managing acidity and pH
Autolytic expressions
Technical challenges
12.00pm
Lunch time
1.00pm
New Zealand and beyond, a love for cool climate winegrowing regions
Anne Escalle, Edward Rothschild, Rimapere, Akarua
Proudly sponsored by Famille Sylvain
1.45pm
Catenamics: Our Winemaking and Growing Philosophy
Jenifer Cugat, Catena Institute, Argentina
Proudly sponsored by Integrape
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Science-Driven Sustainability: Using research to preserve nature and culture in winemaking.
High-Altitude Viticulture: Pioneering extreme-altitude Malbec to ensure quality and longevity.
Genetic Heritage & Innovation: Protecting historic Malbec clones and studying wine ageability.
Terroir & Soil Studies: The Catena Institute of Wine (CIW) has conducted groundbreaking research on terroir, identifying how altitude, soil composition, and climate impact grape quality and wine expression.
Future-Oriented Approach: Elevating Argentine wine for the next 200 years through global collaboration.
2.30pm
CONCURRENT SESSION #1
A selection of workshops, presentations and tastings. Click here for more information on the tastings
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Proudly sponsored by Laffort New Zealand
Discover the journey of Sauvignon Blanc. From its bold, zesty origins to the refined, complex expressions of today, explore how this iconic varietal has evolved across cool climate regions, winemaking styles, and aging techniques. Taste the past, present, and future of Sauvignon Blanc in a guided exploration.
Hosted by: Ivan Sutherland Owner, Dog Point Vineyard, Jules Taylor Owner & Winemaker, Jules Taylor Wines and Frank Benkwitz
Facilitated by: Helen Morrison
$100.00 per person -
Proudly sponsored by Integrape
Dr Amber Parker, Jenifer Cugat
Facilitated by: Mike Collins -
Raise a glass to the elegance of cool-climate sparkling wines. Delve into the role autolysis plays in flavour development. Discover the artistry behind each bottle and celebrate the best of cool-climate viticulture.
Hosted by: Jane De Witt Operations Winemaker - North Island, Lion New Zealand, Nick Lane Head Winemaker, Defined Wine Ltd
Facilitated by: Andy Petrie
$100.00 per person -
Proudly sponsored by Flavourtech
Duncan Shouler Director/Winemaking Consultant, Enobev Consulting, Beth Forrest General Manager & Winemaker, Forrest
Facilitated by: Dr David Jordan
4.00pm
Afternoon tea
4.30pm
CONCURRENT SESSION #2
A selection of workshops, presentations and tastings. Click here for more information on the tastings
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Proudly sponsored by Laffort New Zealand
Discover the journey of Sauvignon Blanc. From its bold, zesty origins to the refined, complex expressions of today, explore how this iconic varietal has evolved across cool climate regions, winemaking styles, and aging techniques. Taste the past, present, and future of Sauvignon Blanc in a guided exploration.
Hosted by: Ivan Sutherland Owner, Dog Point Vineyard, Jules Taylor Owner & Winemaker, Jules Taylor Wines and Frank Benkwitz
Facilitated by: Helen Morrison
$100.00 per person -
Meagan Littlejohn Programme Manager – Sustainable Winegrowing NZ, New Zealand Winegrowers, Tahu Huntley Government and Industry Affairs Manager Monarch Platform, Andree Piddington Sustainability Manager, Yealands Wine Group
Facilitated by: Jeff Sinnott -
Raise a glass to the elegance of cool-climate sparkling wines. Delve into the role autolysis plays in flavour development. Discover the artistry behind each bottle and celebrate the best of cool-climate viticulture.
Hosted by: Jane De Witt Operations Winemaker - North Island, Lion New Zealand, Nick Lane Head Winemaker, Defined Wine Ltd
Facilitated by: Andy Petrie
$100.00 per person
6.00pm
Day one concludes
Sip. Savour. Socialise
Join us for an evening of local wine and cuisine, held within Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū. Commencing with a ’Sonic Aperitif’, let your senses guide you as you explore the galleries and get to know your fellow delegates.
The Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū is an architectural gem in the heart of Christchurch and a short walk from Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre. The building is known for its striking glass façade, which reflects the surrounding cityscape and creates a sense of openness and light. The design, was inspired by the nearby Avon River, with flowing glass panels that evoke the movement of water.
Please note there are limited numbers for this social function. Be sure to book early to secure your spot!
Kindly sponsored by
6.45pm
Tuesday 27 January
Welcome to day two!
9.00am
9.00am
Machine learning and computer vision technology in precision viticulture to enhance vineyard management
Dr Richard Green, University of Canterbury
9.30am
Cool climate viticulture and climate change
Dr Amber Parker, Lincoln University
Proudly Sponsored by Lallemand NZ
10.00am
Breeding better grapevines: prediction, precision and practical impact
Prof Dr Kai Voss-Fels, Hochschule Geisenheim University
Proudly Sponsored by Bragato Research Institute
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Prediction tools guide faster, smarter breeding decisions
Precision tools boost trait targeting and efficiency
Modern breeding delivers real-world vineyard impact
10.45am
Morning tea
11.15am
How industry participatory research, changed the Pinot Noir yield-quality paradigm
Dr Patricia A. Skinkis, Oregon State University
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Learn the outcomes and impacts of a 10-year crop load research project.
Understand defining components for Pinot noir yield targets.
Learn how to conduct university-industry partnerships in citizen science.
12.00pm
Exploring sensory terroir
Dr Jo Burzynska, Oenosthesia
12.30pm
Lunch time
1.30pm
CONCURRENT SESSION #3
A selection of workshops, presentations and tastings. Click here for more information on the tastings
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Credited with launching the first cool climate wine production programme in the English-speaking world, witness for yourself why Lincoln University is applauded for its Bachelor of Viticulture and Oenology, and Masters of Wine and Viticulture programs - as well as its graduates. Tour the lab, meet the research partners and hear from the next generation.
This exclusive event will also feature a guided tasting by Dom Maxwell, two-time New Zealand Winemaker of the Year and Lincoln University graduate, showcasing the excellence of innovative vineyard fermentations.
Leaving during lunch, returning by 5.00pm$25.00 per person
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Proudly sponsored by Vinea Integrated Vineyard Management Software
Dr Amber Parker Director of the Centre for Viticulture and Oenology, Lincoln University, Dr Patty Skinkis, Professor and Viticulture Extension Specialist, Oregon State University
Facilitated by: Dr Mark KrasnowProudly sponsored by Vinea Integrated Vineyard Management Software
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Sounds and music in our environments can radically remix the perception of wine characters, for both consumers and experts. In this immersive practical workshop, wine writer and sound artist, Dr Jo Burzynska demonstrates some of the most powerful sensory shifts. Drawing on her own doctoral research and professional insights, she suggests how these can be harnessed to enhance the wine drinking experience.
Dr Jo Burzynska
Facilitated by: Natalie Christensen
$100.00 per person
limited to 40
3.00pm
Afternoon tea
3.30pm
CONCURRENT SESSION #4
A selection of workshops, presentations and tastings. Click here for more information on the tastings
-
Credited with launching the first cool climate wine production programme in the English-speaking world, witness for yourself why Lincoln University is applauded for its Bachelor of Viticulture and Oenology, and Masters of Wine and Viticulture programs - as well as its graduates. Tour the lab, meet the research partners and hear from the next generation.
This exclusive event will also feature a guided tasting by Dom Maxwell, two-time New Zealand Winemaker of the Year and Lincoln University graduate, showcasing the excellence of innovative vineyard fermentations.
Leaving during lunch, returning by 5.00pm$25.00 per person
-
Proudly sponsored by Ormond
Dr Kai Voss-Fels, Dr Ross Bicknell, Dr Darrell Lizamore
Facilitated by: Braden Crosby -
Proudly sponsored by Vinea Integrated Vineyard Management Software
Dr Amber Parker Director of the Centre for Viticulture and Oenology, Lincoln University, Dr Patty Skinkis, Professor and Viticulture Extension Specialist, Oregon State University
Facilitated by: Dr Mark KrasnowProudly sponsored by Vinea Integrated Vineyard Management Software
Day two concludes
5.00pm
The Art of Banksy exhibition - Exclusive delegate viewing
Complimentary for registered delegates
Click here to view more information. Limited numbers available.
5.00pm - 6.00pm
Free evening to explore Christchurch
Enjoy a free evening to explore the charm of Ōtautahi Christchurch! Whether you choose to unwind in one of our many restaurants, stroll through the vibrant city streets, or discover hidden gems, this is your time to relax and make the most of your stay.
6.00pm
Wednesday 28 January
9.00am
CONCURRENT SESSION #5
A selection of workshops, presentations and tastings. Click here for more information on the tastings
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Proudly sponsored by Horticentre Charitable Trust
Facilitated by: Jenny Dobson
Stewart Field, Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology, Evaluating cultural botrytis control: Effectiveness of machine shaking and pulsed air leaf removal
Katie Mackie-Hass, Agroscope, VitiProtect - Development and Testing of a Downy Mildew AI Forecasting Model
Yihe Sui, Adelaide University, Unlocking Value: Valorisation of Heavy Press Fractions through Membrane Ultrafiltration
Aaron Lowe, Amaea, High-speed, low-energy cold stabilisation with amaea CSx
Eric de Souza Gil, FF UFG, Relationship between Electrochemical Index and sensorial atributtes
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Jenifer Cugat, Kyle Christensen
Facilitated by: Dr Mark Krasnow -
Cool climate Chardonnay has always garnered wine enthusiast appreciation. Taste and discuss the best of New Zealand – and discover what makes our Chardonnays deserving of their increasing recognition.
Hosted by: Jane Skilton MW, Warren Gibson and Murray Cook, Owner & Winegrower, Nous Wine
Facilitated by: Jordon Hogg
$100.00 per person
10.30am
Morning tea
11.00am
CONCURRENT SESSION 6
A selection of workshops, presentations and tastings. Click here for more information on the tastings
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Proudly sponsored by Horticentre Charitable Trust
Facilitated by: Jenny Dobson
Damian Martin, New Zealand Institute for Bioeconomy Science Limited, Marlborough, Early-season prediction of Sauvignon blanc yield in Marlborough,
Harrison Wright, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Common Viruses in Interspecific Hybrid Grapes are Different
Elizabeth Timasino, Oregon State University, Innovative Non-Contact Method for selective removal of thiol related off flavors in wine
Rebecca Deed, University of Auckland, Impact of elemental sulfur, oak, and grape solids on the yeast-mediated production of volatile sulfur compounds in cool climate Chardonnay wines
Keren Bindon, Australian Wine Research Inst, A Ten-Year Journey with Pinot noir: Maceration Tools to Balance Colour, Tannin and Style
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Prof Richard Greens, Brock Campbell
Facilitated by: Jeff Sinnott -
Cool climate Chardonnay has always garnered wine enthusiast appreciation. Taste and discuss the best of New Zealand – and discover what makes our Chardonnays deserving of their increasing recognition.
Hosted by: Jane Skilton MW, Warren Gibson and Murray Cook, Owner & Winegrower, Nous Wine
Facilitated by: Jordon Hogg
$100.00 per person
12.30pm
Lunch time
1.30pm
Yealands sustainability journey
Andree Piddington, Yealands Estate
Proudly Sponsored by Novonesis
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Carbon reduction initiatives
Our biodiversity plan
IWCA (International Wineries for Climate Action)
Toitū Carbon Programme
2.15pm
What about trending cool - What’s hot right now?
Jane Skilton MW, New Zealand School of Wines & Spirits
Proudly sponsored by Chandler Glass & Packaging
3.00pm
Forks in the road
Nigel Greening, Felton Road
Proudly sponsored by our Platinum Sponsor Ukko
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Combining organics, biodynamics, and regenerative with such modern technologies as AI powered spore traps, multi source irrigation and autonomous aerial spraying makes for a busy life at Bannockburn's Felton Road. Is it too many ingredients to put on a plate? Or does the impending chaos of climate change require lateral multistranded thinking?
Closing remarks
3.45pm
Symposium concludes
4.00pm
A Celebration of New Zealand | Gala Dinner
Wrap up the symposium in style with our gala dinner celebrating the best of New Zealand! Indulge in cool-climate wines and delicious local kai (food) and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. This is the perfect way to conclude an incredible symposium!
6.30pm