It has been 20 years since the inaugural Burgundy Exchange, in which a group of young Central Otago winemakers and viticulturists are selected to head to Burgundy each vintage, before French participants travel to New Zealand for a Central harvest. The exchange promises to be "a huge learning opportunity", says Carrick Vineyard Manager Damon Lovell, one of four participants this year. I've always loved the French culture, and to be there living amongst the hecticness of vintage will be very special. Lisa Fromont, from Te Kano, won 2026 Central Otago Young Winemaker of the Year, but will be on the Burgundy Exchange when the national competition takes place in August. "The wine industry in New Zealand is super young, and the history of wine in Burgundy goes back for two millennia."