Corker year for winery wizard

Nick Picone has picked up a top award. Photo / Supplied

Australia's leading wine magazine Winestate has awarded Napier winemaker Nick Picone the New Zealand Winemaker of the Year title at its exclusive awards ceremony in Auckland.

For Mr Picone, who has been with Villa Maria for 18 years and has risen to become its chief winemaker, it was an evening of triple delight as on two previous occasions over the past three years he had also picked up similar accolades.

In 2012 he was judged to be The Wine Society's Young Winemaker of the Yearand in 2013 he was awarded the title of Champions Winemaker of the Year at the New Zealand International Wine Show.

Last year he was also picked by the UK's Drink Business publication as one of their "30 winemakers under 40 to watch".

"Yeah it was good to hear my name come out," Mr Picone said, adding that such awards were made special as they effectively encompassed a portfolio of work, over a complete vintage range of wines.

He said in terms of winemaking there was a second nod towards Villa Maria as the Australian Winemaker of the Year, Kim Milne, had previously worked for the New Zealand winery.

"So we're on both sides of the Tasman."

Mr Picone's award was another reason for Villa Maria founder and CEO Sir George Fistonich to raise a celebratory toast on the night.

His company was named New Zealand Winery of the Year by Winestate - and not for the first time.

Over the last 18 years Villa Maria has picked up that title 14 times.

Sir George said the formula was a simple one and revolved around hard work, dedication and a "passion" for making fine wines.

"It's amazing that even after all these years and with much more competition these days we continue to dominate at winning awards," he said

"Being named New Zealand winery of the year 14 of the 18 times the award has been given is a reflection of our single minded commitment to quality in every wine we make."

Mr Picone said successive years of outstanding vintages had been a huge boost for the industry, although he said the skill levels were now such across the board that even during an average or below average season very good wines could still be produced.

"We are expecting another good season although that's up to Mother Nature now."