The Real Review Names Paul Pujol Finalist for Vigneron of the Year 2025
As part of their inaugural Top Wineries Awards, The Real Review has named Paul Pujol of Prophet’s Rock one of three finalists for Vigneron of the Year New Zealand 2025. The award recognises winegrowers who work across both vineyard and winery, combining sensitive farming with long-term vision and a deep understanding of place.
Writing about the award, Stephen Wong MW notes:
“These vignerons have a vision which goes beyond the winery or the bottle and are as much a part of the regions they inhabit as those same physical realities are a part of their wines.”
Paul Pujol joined Prophet’s Rock in 2005 and has guided the estate ever since, working with challenging hillside vineyards above Lake Dunstan and around Bendigo. He has steadily refined a house style built on restraint, longevity, and site expression, producing what Wong describes as:
“Arrestingly elegant yet powerful aromatic whites (with more varieties on the way) and long-lived, sleek Bendigo pinot noir.”
The Real Review emphasizes that ownership is not the point—kaitiaki, or responsible stewardship, is. Whether by farming the land directly, working closely with trusted growers, or maintaining a holistic approach to both vine health and wine quality, the award celebrates producers whose intent is grounded in care.
Paul’s long-standing collaboration with François Millet, formerly of Domaine Comte Georges de Vogüé, is also noted as a reflection of shared values and mutual respect.
We’re honoured to see Paul’s work recognised in this way. The full article, including the other finalists, is available at The Real Review.