Source: Eastern Institute of Technology
40 seconds ago
EIT Bachelor of Viticulture and Wine Science student Ngaun Siau is preparing for a vintage placement at Craggy Range and an associate judging role at this year’s Hawke’s Bay Wine Awards.
The 27-year-old was awarded the Craggy Range Young Vintner Scholarship and Best Student Wine for her Penrose Cabernet Franc 2025 at last year’s Bayleys Hawke’s Bay Wine Awards.
“I didn’t expect that I would get it,” Ngaun says. “As a student, I study and make wine, but I never thought I would be able to achieve that kind of title.”
Bachelor of Viticulture and Wine Science student Ngaun Siau, pictured with Sue Blackmore, School Viticulture and Wine Science, won two awards at the Bayleys Hawke’s Bay Wine Awards
It is not the first time she has been recognised for her winemaking. Ngaun also received Best Student Wine honours the previous year for her Dalan Cabernet Franc 2024, marking back-to-back awards for the variety.
Ngaun says this year’s wine was produced from a vineyard in Maraekakaho, with contrasting vineyard conditions influencing a different winemaking approach.
“The vineyard conditions were completely different, so I chose a different winemaking path,” she says.
The wine’s name, Penrose, is inspired by the Penrose Staircase, a mathematical concept representing endless steps. Ngaun says the idea resonated with her because she produced a Cabernet Franc the previous year and wanted to continue making wine.
Originally from an agricultural region in Taiwan, Ngaun grew up watching her family harvest crops, sparking an early curiosity about where food and produce ultimately end up.
That interest, combined with a growing passion for sustainable agriculture, led her to Hawke’s Bay and enrolment in EIT’s Bachelor of Viticulture and Wine Science programme in 2023.
Throughout her studies, Ngaun gained experience across vineyards and wineries, working multiple vintages and developing a strong interest in regenerative viticulture. She says exposure to different vineyard systems and production styles has strengthened her understanding of terroir and grape quality.
Her focus on sustainability was reinforced through a regenerative viticulture tour in 2024 and later informed a research project exploring undervine cover cropping and its role in improving soil health.
Ngaun completed her studies at the end of last year and is set to graduate in April.
“These three years went very fast. But they were full of learning, challenges and moments I am very grateful for.”
She says the support of tutors and strong connections with the local wine industry have played a key role in her development.
Ngaun says the openness of the Hawke’s Bay wine community has been central to her growth as a student.
“The industry here is incredibly welcoming. Even very busy winemakers and viticulturists always make time to talk with students and share their knowledge.”
Looking ahead, Ngaun is preparing for her upcoming vintage placement at Craggy Range, where she will work alongside the winemaking team during the harvest in March.
She will also return to the EIT Hawke’s Bay campus in Taradale later this year as an associate judge as part of the Hawke’s Bay Wine Awards judging process.
While her immediate focus remains in Hawke’s Bay, Ngaun says she hopes to continue developing her skills through future vintages, with longer-term plans to pursue further study overseas.
“My roots will always be in wine. There is always more to learn, and that’s what keeps me motivated.”
Assistant Head of School, Lisa Turnbull, says Ngaun’s recognition highlights her dedication and potential.
“Ngaun’s achievements reflect her commitment to learning and her passion for winemaking. We’re very proud of what she has accomplished and look forward to seeing her continue to grow in the industry.”
