The BC Grapegrowers Association has honoured David Kozuki of Golden Retreat Vineyards, Summerland as the 2022 Viticulturist of the Year.

David Kozuki joins the growing list of highly respected growers in British Columbia following Karnail Singh Sidhu, Hans Buchler and Heidi Lorch.

The Viticulturist of the Year is to recognize those in the industry who strive to grow the very best wine grapes. These are the people whose decisions directly guide the daily operations of the vineyard.

During World War II, his grandfather planted a fruit orchard overlooking Okanagan Lake and the well-known road is named after his family, Matsu Road.  David inherited the responsibility of the orchard and converted the land to grapes in 2007. Since then, he’s put great effort into amending the soil and planting the vines.

To win the award, the judges are looking for well-rounded growers, with dedication to the best vineyard management practices and with a vision for supporting the growth of the industry and the greater eco-system. Judging criteria are based on seven categories: vineyard management, environmental stewardship, equipment, human resources, interview with nominee, peer perception and innovation.

The judges were impressed with his eye for detail in the fundamentals of grape growing. Vine balance, uniformity throughout the vineyard, vertical shoots and good bunch spacing were all exceptional.

The resulting wines reflect his excellence in viticulture. The Spearhead Pinot Noir Golden Retreat has won multiple awards, including most recently,  Platinum at the 2021 Lieutenant Governor’s Awards for Excellence in B.C. Wine. 

In recognition of the value that growers give to the wine industry, the award includes a bursary sponsored by Cohort Wholesale of up to $2000 to attend a viticulture conference or educational event. 

Source:  BC Grapegrowers’ Association