The VDP.Nachwuchspreis 2024:
Shaping the Future,
Preserve origin
Five talents, five visions:
How young minds are framing the viticulture of tomorrow
After more than 40 consistently exciting applications and inspiring project ideas, the five winners of the VDP.Nachwuchspreis 2024 have been announced. This award honours young talents who are not only passionate about viticulture, but who are also breaking new ground to bring sustainability, community and innovation to the world of top German wine.
The award winners had to apply with a one-minute video in which they presented themselves and their projects. The five award-winning young talents will not only receive prize money of 2,500 euros each, but will also be mentored by experienced VDP.vintners. The award ceremony will take place at the VDP.Weinbörse 2025 in Mainz - a further step towards promoting the next generation in viticulture and making their ideas visible.
The award winners and their projects
Helena Vitt: Experiences from South Africa for German viticulture
Helena Vitt plans to fund her semester abroad in South Africa to gain valuable insights into international winemaking practices. Her aim is to integrate this experience into German viticulture and at the same time be a role model for young women in the industry.
See Helenas application video here
Sonja Sehm: A learning vineyard for children
With her project, Sonja Sehm wants to create an educational vineyard to teach children about the principles of sustainable viticulture in a fun way. The educational vineyard is to become a place of experience where young generations can discover the connection between nature, culture and viticulture.
See Sonjas application video here
Dorothea John: ‘Terroir on the plate’
Dorothea John brings the idea of permaculture to the VDP.GROSSE LAGE®. Her project combines sustainable viticulture with the cultivation of vegetables from the same vineyard site. The result is a concept in which wine and food together reflect the terroir - a combination of soil, culture and enjoyment.
See Dorotheas application video here
Jonas Schindler: Biodiversity meets wine hike
Jonas Schindler is planning a rest area for hikers and wine enthusiasts in the FRAUENBERG, Mauchen | VDP.GROSSEN LAGE. The project combines recreation with biodiversity: dry stone walls, grass paths and seating create habitats for flora and fauna. The site offers an impressive view of the Hochblauen and the Markgräflerland region. At the same time, visitors can learn more about the site and the Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grape varieties that grow there.
See Jonas' application video here
Paul Michael: Integration through viticulture
Paul Michael focusses on community and participation. His project aims to integrate people with disabilities into viticulture. Through active participation and shared experiences, the aim is to create an inclusive space that connects and enriches.
See Pauls application video here
A step into the future
The VDP.Nachwuchspreis shows that the future of German viticulture is in good hands. The award winners stand for innovative ideas, sustainable visions and the courage to break new ground. Their projects combine tradition with progress and ensure that origin and quality remain alive for future generations.
The prize money comes from the proceeds of the unique magnums sold on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the VDP.Weinbörse - a special contribution to promoting the next generation in viticulture. Read more about it here!
We look forward to supporting the implementation of these projects and honouring the award winners at the VDP.Weinbörse 2025 in Mainz. After all, top German viticulture thrives on the people who shape it with passion and drive.
Congratulations to everyone!
©VDP by Peter Bender