Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti
6 minutes ago
Elise Williams love for wine science is taking her beyond the vineyards of Hawke’s Bay and into the heart of Italy, thanks to the prestigious Wine-Searcher Bragato Exchange Scholarship.
The 23-year-old is in her final year of the Bachelor of Viticulture and Wine Science at EIT and found out about her selection for the scholarship following an intensive application and interview process.
EIT Bachelor of Viticulture and Wine Science student Elise Williams has been awarded the prestigious Wine-Searcher Bragato Exchange Scholarship.
“It’s hard to put into words exactly what this means to me,” she says. “This will be my first time travelling overseas, so the opportunity to experience a new culture while learning about wine is incredible. I just couldn’t pass up the chance to go to Italy and be immersed in the industry there.”
Her curiosity in wine initially developed from an unexpected place—a wine tasting experience during a superyacht crewing course in Nelson.
“I quickly realised that boats weren’t for me—seasickness is no fun! But that tasting stuck with me. When I moved to Hawke’s Bay, I saw an opportunity to explore the wine industry, and I haven’t looked back since.”
Originally from Wellington, Elise moved to Hawke’s Bay with her mum after the Covid-19 pandemic. With her grandmother living in the region, she had always considered it her ‘second home’.
In 2021, she completed the NZ Certificate in Cellar Operations (Level 3) at EIT, which set the foundation for her journey into the wine industry, leading her to pursue further studies.
“I kind of fell into this industry, but once I started working my first harvest, I knew this was what I wanted to do. The work is constantly changing, and you’re always problem-solving. It’s so rewarding.”
Throughout her time at EIT, Elise says she has gained valuable hands-on experience, including working vintages in wineries and obtaining her forklift licence.
“Getting my forklift licence was really useful,” she said. “I was also lucky to work for a winery that gave me a lot of training, which not every student gets.”
Her skills were put to good use in 2023 when Cyclone Gabrielle hit the region. With winery work on hold due to the devastation, Elise stepped up as a volunteer, using her forklift licence to assist at the showgrounds, moving pallets of supplies to help those in need.
“It was something I felt needed to be done. People needed supplies, and I could do my part to help keep things moving. It was incredible to see the community come together.”
Her winemaking achievements have also been impressive. In 2023, she was awarded the Richard Vuletich Memorial Trophy and received a silver medal for her Chardonnay at the EIT Wine Show.
“That was a really special moment. Making my own wine and seeing it recognised reinforced that I was on the right path. Wine is such an incredible mix of art and science, and that’s what makes it so exciting.”
As part of the Wine-Searcher Bragato Exchange, Elise will be hosted by Padua University and welcomed by Italian wine families who have previously participated in the programme. She will gain insights into Italy’s wine industry, meet key figures in the field, and explore some of the country’s most prestigious wineries.
“I’m so excited to meet people who are passionate about wine and see how things are done in a different part of the world. I want to take in as much as I can and bring that knowledge back with me.”
Upon her return to New Zealand in August, Elise will host an Italian scholar in Hawke’s Bay before travelling to Christchurch, where they will attend New Zealand Winegrower events together.
Looking ahead, Elise envisions a future in winemaking, with aspirations of working her way up to an assistant winemaker and, eventually, a head winemaker role.
“The wine industry is so dynamic; no two days are the same. I love the problem-solving and hands-on aspects of it,” she says. “I’ll start off with more vintage experiences and hopefully work my way up to assistant winemaker and beyond.”
Reflecting on her journey so far, Elise expressed immense gratitude for the opportunities she has had.
“I’m so thankful to the people who have organised this exchange and to EIT for providing such a strong foundation. I can’t wait to take this next step. This is something I’ve wanted for a long time, and now it’s actually happening. It still feels a little unreal!”
Head of School Viticulture and Wine Science Sue Blackmore said they are excited that this exchange will continue to provide EIT graduates with a unique life changing opportunity.
“The exchange enables the building of invaluable connections, as well as the opportunity to be hosted by the University of Padua and by ex-exchange scholars in different parts of Italy. We are extremely thankful to our long-term sponsors and the main sponsor, Wine-Searcher, who are ensuring the longevity of this valuable exchange that commemorates its founder, Kevyn Moore.”
