"A truly inspiring story'' is how judges described this year's NZI supreme Enterprising Rural Women Award winner Debra Cruickshank.
The Central Otago woman is behind DC Wines Ltd and her own wine label, Tannacrieff Wines, and is opening a new winery in Bannockburn.
Ms Cruickshank, who grew up on a farm in the Catlins, has credited that upbringing with giving her such a strong work ethic.
RWNZ national president Fiona Gower, who was on the judging panel, said the judges were impressed with Ms Cruickshank's demonstration of a love for what she did and a focus on family, heritage and her roots.
"Debra displays a superb work ethic, skill and innovative thinking, which has provided a great foundation from which to leverage and grow the Tannacrieff Wines brand,'' she said.
More than 180 people attended the awards ceremony in Invercargill.
