Seresin wins gong for organics

CHRISTINE CORNEGE

TENDER TOUCH: Leisha van der Spek and Rob Thomson tend to an organic potato patch at Seresin

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Marlborough winery Seresin Estate has won the organic producer of the year award.

The Organics Aotearoa New Zealand (OANZ) annual awards highlight the people and organisations leading the way in organics.

Seresin Estate viticulturist Colin Ross accepted the award on behalf of the winery at a dinner at Waikato University during the weekend.

Mr Ross was "humbled and honoured" to hear Seresin announced as the winner.

Seresin Estate's entire 165 hectares is organic to BioGro standards and incorporates vineyards, olive groves, gardens, livestock, orchards and native wetlands.

Mr Ross said the decree recognised Seresin's commitment to organic farming.

The winery has encouraged others to consider organic viticulture through field days and workshops. "We try to be ambassadors for the region and organics through exporting our organic products and hosting international staff and visitors."

Mr Ross said Seresin strived to make pure wines and olive oils that were truly reflective of the farm and its efforts.

The award for Organic Enterprise was presented to Waikato-based Homeopathic Farm Support, while the Jon Manhire Award for outstanding contribution to the organic sector was given to Gisborne winemaker James Milton of Milton Vineyards and Winery.

OANZ chair Derek Broadmore said it was fitting for dairy and wine producers to receive awards because they were two of the fastest-growing organic sectors.

He said exports of certified organic dairy products contributed more than $27 million to New Zealand's economy, while organic wine had driven beverages to represent 10 per cent of all New Zealand organic exports.

- The Marlborough Express

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