WineGB has announced their inaugural WineGB Rising Stars Awards – an initiative to acknowledge and celebrate the next generation of UK wine industry professionals. Also announced is the very welcome return of The Vintners’ UK Wine Apprentice Award, awarded by The Vintners’ Company.

Rising Star nominations cover categories across the wine industry. An impressive number of nominations were submitted for Viticulture and Winemaking, receiving 11 and 8 names respectively. Nominations were also received for those working in business, marketing and tourism. Special acknowledgement is also being awarded to a candidate contributing to a sustainable approach to their work.

WineGB members and those in the wider wine trade were invited to nominate members of their team that demonstrate unwavering dedication, a commitment to improvement, and an exemplary work ethic, combined with impressive expertise in their field. The candidates are around the age of 30 and under, already working, and committed to a long-term career in the wine industry.

The return of the Vintners’ UK Wine Apprentice Award brings a further opportunity for wine producers of the future. Generously funded by The Vintners’ Company, the purpose of the Award is to help an aspiring individual to learn more about wine production in the UK, providing an opportunity to undertake courses in viticulture and winemaking at Plumpton College in Sussex over a two-year period. The winning candidate will also be given the opportunity to study for a WSET qualification at an appropriate level.

The award winners will be revealed at the WineGB Dinner hosted by the Vintners’ Company and taking place Vintners’ Hall on Wednesday 31st January.

Nicola Bates, CEO of WineGB commented:

“There is a wealth of skills and talent in our industry and it’s vital that we publicly acknowledge and celebrate the stars of the future who will continue to shape the industry."

"We hope that recognition through these awards will motivate and inspire future generations. We also want to use these awards to help demonstrate the opportunities there are for a career in the wine industry of Great Britain.”

Ian Harris MBE, Chairman of the Trade Liaison Committee of the Vintners’ Company added:

“The growth, vision and quality we’re seeing in the UK wine sector is inspiring. The Vintners’ Company is delighted to continue its support for the industry. We’re particularly proud to help nurture the career of a future industry star through providing support to study at Plumpton College through The Vintners’ UK Wine Apprentice Award.”