October 2026

The October issue of Winepress looks at:

Green Shoots
Fitting out a winery for the second time in 20 years has been a “fantastic” experience, says Sugar Loaf Wines founder and owner Kate Acland. “This site gives our customers an opportunity to see and taste and feel how we grow and make our wines.” Photo by Jim Tannock. Go to page 14

Wine Tourism
Winery visitors are looking for different kinds of offerings, says Cloudy Bay’s Presley Cone. “Along with the global shift away from drinking alcohol, people are becoming more interested in the experience ... It’s not just about the wine anymore.”

Growing Success
Hortus won the Recognised Seasonal Employer Employer of the Year award at the New Zealand Horticulture Conference 2026.

El Niño Season
Earth Sciences New Zealand is warning of the potential impacts of a “super El Niño”, including dry and windy conditions. But there’s also winegrowing potential in seasons like this, says principle scientist (and amateur winemaker) Drew Lorrey.