One of two competitions showcasing the young talent in Central Otago's wine industry has been cancelled due to lack of contestants.
The 11th Bayer Young Viticulturist of the Year competition will be held on July 22 at the Otago Polytechnic campus in Cromwell. However, the young winegrower competition, which was scheduled for next Friday, will not go ahead.
It was first held in Central Otago last year.
Young Viticulturist of the Year national co-ordinator Nicky Grandorge, who was involved with the marketing of the cancelled competition, said there were not enough young winemakers in Central Otago this time of year.
Organisers would look to introduce the competition again next year, she said.
Eight competitors, four male and four female, have signed up for Central Otago Young Viticulturalist of the Year.
"It's about trying to find future leaders for the industry. The main thing is they start making a name for themselves.''
The competition tests skills in the vineyard such as how to treat soil, how to identify pests, proper tractor use and pruning.
The winner will represent the district in the national finals in Blenheim in August.
