This year’s WineGB Pruning Competition, affectionately known as the Battle of the Secateurs, is taking place on 13 March 2024. Good grape-vine pruning is integral to the production of top-quality wine and maintaining vineyard health. WineGB is keen to recognise the skill and know-how of the best pruners in the UK.

Developed to encourage high standards in the vineyard and celebrate the art of pruning, this competition allows both teams and individuals to show off their pruning skills and battle it out to win the coveted title of Vine Pruner of the Year.

Last year, the ‘Golden Secateurs Trophy’ was awarded to Gusbourne (Kent team), with Brenley (A team) in second place, and Ridgeview in third. In the individual competition, first place was awarded to Phil Harris, Vineyard Manager at Davenport Vineyards and Owner of Natalia Harris Vineyard, Naomi Solomon was awarded second place, while Jim Pritchard achieved third place.

Events, Fees & Rules

Championship team event: Teams of three pruners (limited to 12 entries)
Individual event: Single pruners (limited to 12 entries)

Fees:
WineGB member team entry (£30), WineGB member individual entry (£10)
WineGB non-member team entry (£60), WineGB non-member individual entry (£20)
* Select ‘WineGB member’ if the vineyard/winery you work for is a member of WineGB. You may also select WineGB member if you are a trade, individual or student member of WineGB. Select ‘non-member’ if you work for a vineyard/winery that is not a member of WineGB.

Further information:
Each team or individual will prune a minimum of five vines in 10 minutes (pruner, cane puller, trimmer & tie).

Cash prizes and pruning equipment will be awarded for first, second and third place finishes in both competitions.

For the 2024 competition rules and judging criteria, please click here.

Refreshments will be provided during the awards ceremony courtesy of Langham Wine Estate.

Spectators are welcome. Please bring £5 in cash to contribute towards the cost of food & drink.

Enter the competition

You can enter as a team or as an individual. Please use the relevant form below.

Entries close on 1 March.

For further details, please email Phoebe.