Symposium
Programme
Join us 26 – 28 January 2026 in Ōtautahi Christchurch, New Zealand
Monday 26 January
Our programme on day one starts at 10.00am, allowing you time to fly / travel during the morning.
Mihi whakatau and Welcome
10.00am
10.30am
Why reputation matters - Telling the NZ Story
David Downs, NZ Story
Extracting the best from a marginal climate
Nick Lane, Defined Wine
11.15am
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Managing ambitions
Managing acidity and pH
Autolytic expressions
Technical challenges
12.00pm
Lunch at the NZSVO Lounge is the perfect blend of great food, lively conversation, and exciting discoveries!
Mingle with fellow attendees, explore sponsor stalls, and browse the inspiring poster displays – all in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
1.00pm
New Zealand and beyond, a love for cool climate winegrowing regions
Anne Escalle, Edward Rothschild, Rimapere, Akarua
1.45pm
Catenamics: Our Winemaking and Growing Philosophy
Roy Urvieta, Catena Institute, Argentina
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Science-Driven Sustainability: Using research to preserve nature and culture in winemaking.
High-Altitude Viticulture: Pioneering extreme-altitude Malbec to ensure quality and longevity.
Genetic Heritage & Innovation: Protecting historic Malbec clones and studying wine ageability.
Terroir & Soil Studies: The Catena Institute of Wine (CIW) has conducted groundbreaking research on terroir, identifying how altitude, soil composition, and climate impact grape quality and wine expression.
Future-Oriented Approach: Elevating Argentine wine for the next 200 years through global collaboration.
2.30pm
CONCURRENT SESSION A
A selection of workshops, presentations and tastings. Click here for more information on the tastings
4.00pm
Afternoon tea at the NZSVO Lounge
4.30pm
CONCURRENT SESSION B
A selection of workshops, presentations and tastings. Click here for more information on the tastings
6.00pm
Day one concludes
Sip. Savour. Socialise
Join us for an evening of local wine and cuisine, held within Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū. Commencing with a ’Sonic Aperitif’, let your senses guide you as you explore the galleries and get to know your fellow delegates.
The Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū is an architectural gem in the heart of Christchurch and a short walk from Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre. The building is known for its striking glass façade, which reflects the surrounding cityscape and creates a sense of openness and light. The design, was inspired by the nearby Avon River, with flowing glass panels that evoke the movement of water.
Please note there are limited numbers for this social function. Be sure to book early to secure your spot!
Kindly sponsored by
6.45pm
Tuesday 27 January
Welcome to day two!
9.00am
9.05am
Machine learning and computer vision technology in precision viticulture to enhance vineyard management
Dr Richard Green, University of Canterbury
9.45am
Cool climate viticulture and climate change
Dr Amber Parker, Lincoln University
10.15am
Morning tea at the NZSVO Lounge
10.45am
Advances in grapevine breeding for improved resilience and performance
Dr Kai Voss-Fels, Hochschule Geisenheim University
11.20am
How industry participatory research, changed the Pinot Noir yield-quality paradigm
Dr Patricia A. Skinkis, Oregon State University
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Learn the outcomes and impacts of a 10-year crop load research project.
Understand defining components for Pinot noir yield targets.
Learn how to conduct university-industry partnerships in citizen science.
11.55am
Exploring sensory terroir
Dr Jo Burzynska, Oenosthesia
12.30pm
Lunch at the NZSVO Lounge
1.30pm
CONCURRENT SESSION C
A selection of workshops, presentations and field trip. Click here for more information on the field trip
3.00pm
Afternoon tea at the NZSVO Lounge
3.30pm
CONCURRENT SESSION D
A selection of workshops, presentations and tastings. Click here for more information on the tastings
Day two concludes
5.00pm
Free evening to explore Christchurch
Enjoy a free evening to explore the charm of Ōtautahi Christchurch! Whether you choose to unwind in one of our many restaurants, stroll through the vibrant city streets, or discover hidden gems, this is your time to relax and make the most of your stay.
6.45pm
Wednesday 28 January
9.00am
CONCURRENT SESSION E
A selection of workshops, presentations and tastings. Click here for more information on the tastings
10.30am
Morning tea at the NZSVO Lounge
11.00am
CONCURRENT SESSION F
A selection of workshops, presentations and tastings. Click here for more information on the tastings
12.30pm
Lunch at the NZSVO Lounge
1.30pm
Yealands sustainability journey
Andree Piddington, Yealands Estate
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Carbon reduction initiatives
Our biodiversity plan
IWCA (International Wineries for Climate Action)
Toitū Carbon Programme
2.15pm
What about trending cool - what’s hot right now?
Jane Skilton MW, New Zealand School of Wines & Spirits
3.00pm
Forks in the road
Nigel Greening, Felton Road
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Combining organics, biodynamics, and regenerative with such modern technologies as AI powered spore traps, multi source irrigation and autonomous aerial spraying makes for a busy life at Bannockburn's Felton Road. Is it too many ingredients to put on a plate? Or does the impending chaos of climate change require lateral multistranded thinking?
Closing remarks
3.45pm
Symposium concludes
4.00pm
A Celebration of New Zealand | Gala Dinner
Wrap up the symposium in style with our gala dinner celebrating the best of New Zealand! Indulge in cool-climate wines and delicious local kai (food) and soak up the vibrant atmosphere, elevated by New Zealand’s favourite MC Te Radar.
Then, hit the dance floor and let loose with the sounds of our seven-piece band, the Oval Office. An evening of great company, laughter, and unforgettable moments—this is the perfect way to conclude an incredible symposium!
6.30pm
Join us at the 11th International Cool Climate Wine Symposium (ICCWS), learn, network and most of all have fun with your colleagues.
Early bird registration closing prior to Friday 31 October