2011 Champagne Trinity Scholarship Winner Announced
A New Zealand-based student in the Institute of Masters of Wine education programme is the recipient of the prestigious Champagne Trinity Scholarship for 2011.
Katy Prescott, from Marlborough, has been awarded the scholarship for her essay discussing the challenges and benefits of sustainable viticulture within the Champagne appellation.
The Institute, with the support of the Champagne houses of Bollinger, Louis Roederer and Pol Roger, offers the scholarship annually to a first-year student participating in its international education programme. It consists of two consecutive trips to the Champagne region, one during vintage and another during the blending of the vins clairs in the spring. It provides a unique opportunity for a student to gain an insight into Champagne through visits to the three renowned, family-owned houses.
Katy entered the wine industry in 2004 deciding that wine was a far more exciting product than the petroleum derivatives she was previously marketing at BP. After a couple of years working in sales at E & J Gallo she was named sales person of the year. Katy then moved to Marlborough, New Zealand, and gained a position as global sales and marketing manager for Nautilus Estate. In 2009, Katy completed her WSET Diploma, winning the Wine Australia Scholarship. This success inspired her to embark upon the Institute’s education programme.
James Samson, UK Brand Manager for Champagne Louis Roederer said: “Congratulations to Katy. Her scholarship is well deserved as her submission showed really good research. It was thorough, original and contained good punchy ideas. We look forward to welcoming her to Champagne where she will have an unparalleled opportunity to explore in great depth the intricacies of Champagne.”
Katy Prescott said: “Champagne is a particular passion of mine and I am therefore exhilarated by the chance to learn firsthand about some of the top Champagne houses.”
Lynne Sherriff MW, Chairman of the Institute, said: “We are very grateful to Bollinger, Louis Roederer and Pol Roger for their continuing support. Once again these family-owned houses are providing someone who aspires to be a Master of Wine with a wonderful opportunity to see at first hand what goes into the production of great Champagne.”