NZ WINE AWARDS

WINE AWARDS ISSUE

OVER 100 WINES TASTED AND RATED

WINE STORAGE SORTED

With over 800 entries, the country’s newest and only national wine show has clearly been embraced by the wine industry it serves.

The National Wine Awards of Aotearoa New Zealand launched this year with the purpose of identifying, celebrating and elevating excellence in New Zealand wine.

This same team has organised the Royal Easter Show Wine Awards, NZ's longest running Wine Show, and as that format is retired, they are very proud to introduce this new celebration.

Judging took place over three days in late September at the Kumeu Showgrounds with Jane Cooper as Chair of Judges, ably supported by Olly Masters as her Deputy, and Meg Brodtmann MW from Australia as International Guest Judge along with an excellent and very capable team of nineteen New Zealandbased judges.

The celebration part of the show’s mission statement, the Awards of Excellence, happens next Sunday 6 November where trophies will be awarded to the best of the best, with each trophy-winning wine being poured for guests over a decadent long lunch at Auckland’s Hilton Hotel.

For further questions, please contact Jo Gear as below.

Ngā mihi, The National Wine Awards Committee & Establishment Board.

JO GEAR Convenor nationalwineawardsofaotearoanz@gmail.com +64 21 900 739

IT’S A CHARDONNAY DAY AT THE INAUGURAL NATIONAL WINE AWARDS WATERFRONT CELEBRATION

Chardonnay wins top honours at the inaugural National Wine Awards of Aotearoa New Zealand.

Isabel Estate Marlborough Chardonnay 2020 won the Champion Wine of the Show as well as scooping the New World Trophy for Champion Chardonnay and its winemaker Jeremy McKenzie took top honours as Winemaker of the Show at the Awards of Excellence luncheon celebration at Auckland’s Hilton waterfront hotel today.

Chair of Judges, Jane Cooper, commented on the incredible balance of the wine, noting the tension between acid and fruit. “It’s a feat of brilliance to bring that richness and texture to the palate while maintaining spark and lightness,” Cooper said.

“It’s a thrill of a wine, and Jeremy’s understanding and mastery are on clear display. I can’t wait to see what’s next.”

Isabel Estate has a long tradition of Chardonnay, with 30-year old Mendoza vines contributing to this stellar wine. McKenzie has been in charge since 2014 (starting there on his birthday) converting much of the vineyard to organic principles with an eye on top end chardonnay for the long haul.

The Luncheon, emceed by Jesse Mulligan, the “affordable John Campbell” (in his own words) awarded 17 Trophies, including the Auckland A&P Association Heritage Rosebowl that rewards wines that reflect a consistency of style over time, the winner of which was Wanaka’s three vintages of Mount Maude Reserve East Block Riesling (2012, 2016, 2021).

Family-owned Hawke’s Bay winery Askerne was the popular winner of two trophies, including the New Zealand Couriers Trophy for Champion Gewürztraminer, and Central Otago’s Providore Pinot Noir 2019 took out the hotly contested Rural News Group Trophy for Champion Pinot Noir.

TROPHY WINNERS 2022

DISH MAGAZINE TROPHY FOR CHAMPION PINOT GRIS

DUCK HUNTER MARLBOROUGH

PINOT GRIS 2022

Richly fragrant and enticing, this is an excellent example of modern, cool-climate Gris. Concentrated and flavourful with great texture and excellent length. A really enjoyable wine.

GUALA CLOSURES NZ

TROPHY FOR CHAMPION

SAUVIGNON BLANC

YEALANDS ESTATE SINGLE

VINEYARD SAUVIGNON BLANC 2022

Intense greens and bright herb freshness that clearly express the best of the Awatere. Wonderful concentration of flavour and excellent acid line that carries a juicy moreishness. A true classic.

RAPID LABELS TROPHY FOR CHAMPION

SPARKLING LINDAUER VINTAGE

SERIES BRUT CUVÉE 2017

Lovely ripe fruit notes sit well with attractive autolysis characters. Elegant and seamless with a deliciously satisfying finish. Very well made.

ANTIPODES TROPHY FOR CHAMPION RIESLING

MUD HOUSE SINGLE

VINEYARD THE MOUND RIESLING 2021

Beautifully made, captivating wine. All the hallmarks of benchmark Riesling - weight, intensity, tension and elegance. A winner on all fronts.

WINEWORKS TROPHY FOR CHAMPION ROSÉ

SQUAWKING MAGPIE

FIRST FLIGHT STARTLED PINK 2022

Modern and fresh, this is everything good Rosé should be. Ripe fruit gives enticing fragrance as well as lovely palate richness while finishing just-dry and refreshingly long. A very good drink.

TROPHY FOR CHAMPION OTHER WHITE VARIETIES

ASKERNE VIOGNIER 2021

Thoughtfully made, the alcohol, acid, fruit and sweetness all balance beautfully to deliver a delicious mouthful. Richly textured with a lovely glide to the finish.

RURAL NEWS GROUP TROPHY FOR CHAMPION PINOT NOIR

PROVIDORE PINOT NOIR 2019

Striking that perfect balance of tannin ripeness with cool-climate freshness, this wine is an absolute pleasure. Plush, weighty and elegant, bottle age has made it comfortable yet it's vibrant and alive.

NEW WORLD TROPHY FOR

CHAMPION CHARDONNAY

ISABEL ESTATE

MARLBOROUGH

CHARDONNAY 2020

A thrilling wine that shows richness and texture on the palate while maintaining spark and lightness. Beautifully crafted with all those elements of fine chardonnay working together in perfect harmony.

TROPHY FOR CHAMPION MERLOT & BLENDS

MUD HOUSE HAWKE'S BAY MERLOT 2021

Brightly fruited, this is a joyous wine, showing ripe berry notes, well-integrated oak and bold tannins. Youthful freshness and lovely flavour deliver wonderful drinkability.

MAINFREIGHT TROPHY FOR CHAMPION EXPORT WINE

BLIND RIVER SAUVIGNON BLANC 2022

A lovely combination of ripe tropical notes and a grassy freshness that delivers all the flavour punch promised by the nose. Textural and juicy to finish. The world will love it.

GUALA CLOSURES NZ

TROPHY FOR BEST PRESENTED

SCREWCAP WINE BOTTLE

TE KANO CENTRAL OTAGO

SAUVIGNON BLANC 2021

TROPHY FOR CHAMPION SYRAH

GIESEN SINGLE

VINEYARD CLAYVIN

SYRAH 2021

This is a gorgeous wine that is testament to great skill from vineyard to bottle. Fruit richness, fine tannin and sensitive inputs have crafted a beautifully balanced masterpiece.

FRUITFED TROPHY FOR CHAMPION CABERNET & BLENDS

VILLA MARIA RESERVE

GIMBLETT GRAVELS

HAWKES BAY CABERNET

SAUVIGNON MERLOT 2020

A lovely example of blending mastery, bringing the best together to create a seamless wine. Length, elegance, concentration and poise - this has it all.

NEW ZEALAND COURIERS

TROPHY FOR CHAMPION

GEWURZTRAMINER

ASKERNE RESERVE

GEWURZTRAMINER 2021

Rich, ripe style with superb balance of fruit sweetness and acid freshness. Great intensity of flavour and excellent length. Delicious.

TROPHY FOR CHAMPION

OTHER RED VARIETIES

LEFTFIELD HAWKES BAY

MALBEC 2020

From the vibrant colour to the ripe brambly fruit notes and plush tannins, this is a statement wine. Mouthfilling and flavourful, it's an excellent example of Malbec and a wonderful reason to drink outside the square.

WINEJOBSONLINE.COM

TROPHY FOR CHAMPION

SWEET WINE

VILLA MARIA RESERVE NOBLE

RIESLING 2021

An inviting medley of ripe stonefruit aromatics. Intensely concentrated fruit flavours are lifted by a line of acid freshness delivering length and purity. Lovely example of what NZ can do with sweet wines.

AUCKLAND AGRICULTURAL & PASTORAL ASSOCIATION HERITAGE ROSE BOWL

MOUNT MAUDE RESERVE EAST BLOCK RIESLING

2012/2016/2021

These three Mount Maude East Block Rieslings show the very best of this variety, made in a pristine style with delightful acidity and balance. The older wines showed subtle, restrained kerosene and honey notes but still looked youthful with lime/lemon notes, a lovely mineral line of acidity and tension. The 2021 vintage was all about the tautness and vibrancy of a young Riesling, delicious.

TROPHY FOR CHAMPION

WINE OF THE SHOW

ISABEL ESTATE MARLBOROUGH CHARDONNAY 2020

AUCKLAND AGRICULTURAL & PASTORAL ASSOCIATION

WINEMAKER OF THE SHOW

JEREMY MCKENZIE

Sip, sip, hooray!

Local wineries toast multiple wins as 20th annual New World Wine Awards Top 50 list is revealed.

One of the most anticipated wine lists of the year is finally here, with today’s announcement of the 2022 New World Wine Awards Top 50 wines under $25.

The list reveals the best-ofthe-best from the 20th annual wine competition, where expert judges swirled, sniffed, tasted, debated and scored their way through more than 1,200 different wines to determine the 50 top-ranked Gold-medal winners.

These wines are now available at New World stores nationwide*, but for winedrinkers who still aren’t sure where to start, New World Wine Awards Co-Chair of Judges Sam Kim says this year’s Top 50 list is a particularly handy guide.

“The New World Wine Awards is all about taking the guesswork out of choosing a great wine at a great price, and this year’s Top 50 is especially helpful because it includes so many repeat winners from over the competition’s 20-year history.

“These are multi-winning wines and wineries that have made the grade time and again, proving their excellence year after year, bottle after bottle.

“Their achievements are great news for wine-drinkers who are on the lookout for

quality and consistency at an affordable price, and well worth a toast.”

GIESEN ESTATE RIESLING CROWNED WITH GOLD AGAIN

A win for the Giesen Estate Riesling 2021 has brought this wine’s Gold-medal tally to seven and cemented it’s claim as the winningest wine in the New World Wine Awards so far**.

The Giesen team are well known in New Zealand and around the world for their expertise in Riesling, which they’ve been making for 34 years using Waipara and Marlborough-grown grapes.

Chief Winemaker Duncan Shouler says it’s fantastic to have another Gold-medal in the trophy cabinet for what his team refers to as ‘New Zealand’s favourite Riesling’. “We work hard each year to get every aspect of this wine just right. It’s balanced, juicy and versatile, and we hope this win will inspire more wine-lovers to give Riesling a go alongside their next summer platter or barbeque.”

“Their achievements are great news for winedrinkers who are on the lookout for quality and consistency at an affordable price, and well worth a toast.”

SAVVY SAUVIGNON, BRILLIANT BUBBLES AND MORE…

This year Rapaura Springs Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2022 and Wairau River Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2022 have returned to the list for the fifth time, with Rapaura Springs also taking the Champion Sauvignon title for the second time.

Despite being accustomed to the winner’s circle, Rapaura Spring winemaker Michael Bann says this year’s recognition is particularly appreciated by him and his team after a challenging vintage. “It was one of those years that put our skills to the test and it's great to see our picking decisions and hard work pay off once again.”

Chardonnay devotees don’t need to worry either.

Chardonnay sages at Church Road have taken the Champion Chardonnay and White Wine of the Show titles with their Church Road McDonald Series Hawke's Bay Chardonnay 2021, headlining a six-strong range of options from Hawke’s Bay, Gisborne and Marlborough.

Also returning to the Top 50 as a Champion is the Lindauer Vintage Series Brut Cuvée 2017, a “seriously good” drop according to Kim, and incredible value at under $20 for a bottlefermented Kiwi bubbly that could easily rival your favourite French Champagne.

It’s flanked by the alwaysdependable drop, Verde Brut, and returning star, the Graham Norton Prosecco DOC -- a trendsetting collab between Waikato based Invivo Wines and the comedian and television personality of red chair fame.

In reds, boutique wine company SOHO Wines is celebrating a momentous third year in the Top 50 with their SOHO Bobby Marlborough Pinot Noir 2021 taking out Champion Pinot Noir and Champion Red Wine of the Show.

Founder Rachael Carter says: “We are truly passionate about the wine we make and we’re so excited to earn two Champion titles for our Pinot Noir, and to see ‘Bobby’ get front and centre with thousands of supermarket shoppers.”

WINNINGEST WINERIES SPOTLIGHT FOR QUALITY, CONSISTENCY AND TRYING NEW THINGS

Scanning across the winners list, several wineries will be well known names, standing out for

their multiple Top 50 placings over the years.

Villa Maria boasts an impressive haul of 38 Gold medals in these awards since 2008, Saint Clair Family Estate is hot on their heels with 21, and Mount Riley comes third with 19. Better still, all have two delicious signature variety wines in the Top 50 in 2022.

For those with more adventurous tastes, Kim says there is plenty new to explore, too.

“For every classic on the list this year, there is also something new and different to try.

“The Mount Riley Marlborough Albariño 2022 offers wine-lovers a totally new taste from this recognised brand, with a new white wine variety that is just starting to take hold in New Zealand vineyards and Kiwi wine palates.

“Rosé fans can choose from both New Zealand and French winning wines this year, and if you want a real adventure there are red wines from all around the world including Tempranillo, Malbec, Garnacha, and Sangiovese.”

*Liquor selling stores. **Based on results between 20082022. Detailed records are not available for prior years.

Winning wines

The recently announced list reveals the best-of-the-best from the 20th annual competition, where judges swirled, sniffed, tasted, debated and scored their way through more than 1,200 different wines to determine the 50 top-ranked Gold-medal winners.

“There are a number of wines and wineries in this year’s list that have returned time and again,” says Co-Chair Sam Kim. “Their achievements are great news for wine-drinkers, demonstrating amazing consistency and quality year after year, and are well worth a toast.”

A win for the Giesen Estate Riesling 2021 has brought this wine’s New World Wine Awards Goldmedal tally to seven and cemented its claim as the winningest wine in the competition. The blend of Marlborough and Waipara grapes is an off-dry delight that Kim describes as “exquisitely balanced, juicy and laden with lime and mandarin.” (RRP $13.99)

The Rapaura Springs Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2022 and Wairau River Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2022 have both returned to the list for the fifth time this year, with the Rapaura Springs also taking the coveted Champion Sauvignon Blanc title for the second time. It is “powerfully expressed with passionfruit, kaffir lime, sweet basil and kiwifruit flavours with excellent fruit intensity and vibrancy,” says Kim. (RRP $16.99)

This year’s New World Wine Awards Top 50 list includes the opportunity to celebrate some of the competition’s most awarded wines and wineries.

Also returning to the Top 50 as a Champion is the Lindauer Vintage Series Brut Cuvée 2017, a “seriously good” drop according to Kim, and incredible value. The wine has also since taken Champion titles at the NZ International Wine Show and the National Wine Awards of Aotearoa NZ. “Immediately enticing with ripe stone fruit, lemon curd and savoury pastry characters, it’s creamy and smooth in the mouth with a persistent silky finish,” says Kim. (RRP $16.99)

The Chardonnay sages at Church Road were also back, this time with both a Champion Chardonnay and White Wine of the Show title for their Church Road McDonald Series Hawke's Bay Chardonnay 2021. Made from premium vineyards picked with the intention of crafting a supple, medium bodied wine, Kim noted flavours of “citrus, flint and a touch of lightly buttered popcorn.” (RRP $19.99)

In reds, boutique wine company SOHO Wines celebrated a momentous third year in the Top 50 with their SOHO Bobby Marlborough Pinot Noir 2021, winning Champion Pinot Noir and Champion Red Wine of the Show. Kim describes it as: “Seductive and plush with lovely intensity, juicy berries, red liquorice and savoury nuances.” (RRP $20.99)

Other New Zealand made Champions include the Mount Riley Marlborough Albariño 2022 (RRP $14.99), Russian Jack Marlborough Pinot Gris 2022, and Selaks Taste Collection Berries & Cream Rosé 2022 (RRP $14.99), which Kim says is “light, delicate and refreshing yet flavoursome and satisfying.”

Some winning wines also stand out for their contribution to multiple Top 50 placings over the years. This year’s Top 50 Villa Maria Private Bin East Coast Pinot Gris 2022 (RRP $13.99) and Villa Maria Private Bin Hawkes Bay Merlot 2021 (RRP $13.99) bring Villa Maria’s tally to an impressive 38 Gold medals in these awards since 2008.

Saint Clair Family Estate is hot on their heels with 21 Golds, including for 2022 winners Saint Clair Origin Marlborough Pinot Gris 2021 (RRP $15.99) and Saint Clair James Sinclair Gimblett Gravels Syrah 2021 (RRP $22.99), and Mount Riley is in the third place with 19 Golds, including for their Mount Riley Marlborough Pinot Noir 2021 (RRP $15.99).

The Top 50 list and full results are available at newworld.co.nz/wineawards

Winning food pairings

SALADS & MUD HOUSE WAIPARA VALLEY RIESLING 2022

(RRP $13.99): Ideal for afternoon and evening gatherings, this medium-dry style wine has great energy and fruit purity. It’s a wonderful apéritif and sits nicely alongside a soft cheese platter to start, or a light salad with tangy feta and balsamic roasted tomatoes. For something more substantial, try it with Asian cuisine, like a Thai Green Curry.

BAKE BRIE & ROARING MEG CENTRAL OTAGO POINT NOIR ROSÉ 2022 (RRP $19.99): A gooey baked brie is a great way to elevate your cheese platter and this one is particularly festive – topped with sweet cranberries and crunchy pistachios. The delicate sweetness of this Rosé pairs perfectly with the topping textures, while its zingy acidity counters the creamy cheese. For a more relaxed option, enjoy this wine with a movie – it will handle fatty, salty snacks like popcorn or pizza.

Here the New World team shares some winning wine and food pairing suggestions. These matches – from starters to finishing touches – are well-suited to the summer season, whether you are busy relaxing or hosting family and whanau.

CREAMY CHICKEN & SACRED HILL RESERVE HAWKE'S BAY CHARDONNAY 2020 (RRP $18.99): For a low-effort but highreward meal, seek out New World’s one-pan Chicken with garlic and white wine sauce recipe. Made in less than 30 minutes, it is creamy and delicious, and well matched with this also creamy but refreshing Chardonnay. For something a tad more luxurious, try this wine with decadent crayfish.

RAGU & RUA PINOT NOIR 2021 (RRP $23.99): This complex and velvety wine loves meaty, slowcooked flavours. A red wine beef ragu can be both a warming weeknight meal, or an impressive but low stress option when hosting. Using your choice of red wine in the cooking, and enjoying a glass alongside, makes for a perfect flavour match. For a lighter dish, try this wine with grilled salmon.

GARNACHA & BROWNIES: For an end of meal treat, the sweet fruit flavours and soothing mouthfeel of the Vina Borgia by Borsao Organic Garnacha 2020 (RRP $16.99) is a pleasing partner to rich fudge brownies. Blue cheese also pairs well for those after a more savoury finish.

Full recipes, and more pairing ideas, can be found at newworld.co.nz/wineawards

VITIS & WINEMAKERS CHAMPION SPARKLING WINE

Deutz Prestige Cuvée 2017

WINEWORKS CHAMPION SAUVIGNON BLANC 2022

Vavasour Sauvignon Blanc 2022

WINEWORKS CHAMPION SAUVIGNON BLANC 2021 & OLDER

Vavasour Papa Sauvignon Blanc 2021

WINE MARLBOROUGH ALTERNATE STYLE SAUVIGNON BLANC

te Pā Oke Sauvignon Blanc 2020

DE SANGOSSE NZ CHAMPION RIESLING

Lake Chalice The Falcon Riesling 2021

LABEL & LITHO CHAMPION PINOT GRIS

Saint Clair James Sinclair Pinot Gris 2021

WINE BROKERS NEW ZEALAND CHAMPION GEWÜRZTRAMINER

Honorary Lilac Vines Gewürztraminer 2021

MOVE FREIGHT CHAMPION OTHER WHITE WINE

Saint Clair Pioneer Block 28 Camp Block Pinot Blanc 2019

BARREL FINANCE & LOGISTICS CHAMPION SWEET WINE

TOHU Raiha Reserve Noble Riesling 2016

MRC CHAMPION CHARDONNAY CURRENT VINTAGE

Rapaura Springs Single Vineyard Bouldevines Vineyard Chardonnay 2020

MRC CHAMPION CHARDONNAY 2019 & OLDER

Giesen Single Vineyard Clayvin Chardonnay 2018

SCENIC HOTEL MARLBOROUGH CHAMPION ROSÉ

Kōparepare Marlborough Pinot Noir Rosé 2022

WINE MARLBOROUGH CHAMPION OTHER RED WINE

Giesen Single Vineyard Clayvin Syrah 2021

CLASSIC OAK PRODUCTS CHAMPION PINOT NOIR CURRENT VINTAGE

Marisco Vineyards ‘The King's Wrath’ Pinot Noir 2021

CLASSIC OAK PRODUCTS CHAMPION PINOT NOIR 2019 & OLDER

TOHU Whenua Awa Pinot Noir 2019

VIT MANAGEMENT LTD BEST ORGANIC WINE

Giesen Single Vineyard Clayvin Chardonnay 2018

THE COTERIE WINE OF PROVENANCE

TOHU Whenua Awa Pinot Noir 2019

MARLBOROUGH MUSEUM LEGACY AWARD

Wither Hills Taylor River Single Vineyard Pinot Noir 2019 / 2015 / 2011

wine of the show

QUAYCONNECT CHAMPION WINE OF THE SHOW

Marisco Vineyards ‘The King's Wrath’ Pinot Noir 2021

trophy winning wines

MRC CHAMPION CHARDONNAY CURRENT VINTAGE RAPAURA SPRINGS SINGLE VINEYARD BOULDEVINES

VINEYARD CHARDONNAY 2020

Our Single Vineyard wines hail from premium vineyard sites and represent the best of our region. Rapaura Springs Bouldevines Vineyard Chardonnay is complex and enticing, with grapefruit, citrus and white peach characters that are complemented by struck-flint, spice, and vanilla. In the glass the wine is loaded with texture. Stone fruit and citrus are underpinned by a flinty mineral flavour and toasty complexity. The wine has great balance and length and will reward cellaring for the next five years.

LABEL & LITHO CHAMPION PINOT GRIS

SAINT CLAIR JAMES SINCLAIR PINOT GRIS 2021

Elegant and crisp with fresh flavours of white pear and subtle spice. This wine is perfectly paired with soft ripe cheeses or spring rolls with a lightly spiced dipping sauce.

MOVE FREIGHT CHAMPION OTHER WHITE WINE

SAINT CLAIR PIONEER BLOCK 28 CAMP BLOCK PINOT BLANC 2019

Named Camp Block as the vineyard site was used as a camp for the Royal New Zealand Air Force in the Second World War. Fresh green apple and honeydew melon layered with citrus peel. The palate displays crisp bright acidity with fresh fruit sweetness and an oily texture.

DE SANGOSSE NZ CHAMPION RIESLING

LAKE CHALICE FALCON RIESLING 2021

A racy, medium-dry Riesling from our Walsh vineyard, Marlborough. The palate is fresh and inviting, rich and rounded with fragrant ripe limes and lemon zest.

CLASSIC OAK PRODUCTS CHAMPION PINOT NOIR

2019 & OLDER

TOHU WHENUA AWA PINOT NOIR 2019

Displaying brooding dark fruit aromas with notes of forest floor and harmonious spicy, smoky oak this this richly textured Pinot Noir sourced solely from our Awatere Valley vineyard is selected from the very finest barrels to deliver a complex and elegantly structured wine balanced with soft, silky tannins that lead to a long, lingering and mouth-filling finish.

THE

COTERIE WINE OF PROVENANCE

TOHU WHENUA AWA PINOT NOIR 2019

Displaying brooding dark fruit aromas with notes of forest floor and harmonious spicy, smoky oak this this richly textured Pinot Noir sourced solely from our Awatere Valley vineyard is selected from the very finest barrels to deliver a complex and elegantly structured wine balanced with soft, silky tannins that lead to a long, lingering and mouth-filling finish.

BARREL FINANCE & LOGISTICS CHAMPION SWEET WINE

TOHU RAIHA RESERVE NOBLE RIESLING 2016

A brilliant gold hue in the glass, this single vineyard Noble Riesling displays luscious botrytis aromas of apricot and wild honey. Generous and mouth-filling, the palate bursts forward with abundant sweetness balanced with zesty lemon meringue and sweet citrus flavours. Concentrated, rich and viscous, this wine leads to a long, smooth finish.

WINE MARLBOROUGH CHAMPION OTHER RED WINE

GIESEN SINGLE VINEYARD CLAYVIN SYRAH 2021

The 2021 Clayvin Syrah is inky purple in colour, with a bright hue. The aroma of the wine draws you in, with ripe blueberry, lavender and graphite notes, and a hint of black pepper. The palate is intensely concentrated, with layers of rich dark berry compote and sweet spice, with fine grained tannin and fantastic energy and drive.

MRC CHAMPION CHARDONNAY 2019 & OLDER GIESEN SINGLE VINEYARD CLAYVIN CHARDONNAY 2018

The 2018 Clayvin Chardonnay has an inviting mid lemon appearance. On the nose, classic Clayvin Chardonnay characters of white stone fruit and yellow flowers are framed by subtle flinty toast characters. The palate displays a wonderful combination of both freshness and richness, with layers of peach, nectarine and citrus backed up with apple pastry and oatmeal, finishing with bright acidity and minerality.

VIT MANAGEMENT LTD BEST ORGANIC WINE

GIESEN SINGLE VINEYARD CLAYVIN CHARDONNAY 2018

The 2018 Clayvin Chardonnay has an inviting mid lemon appearance. On the nose, classic Clayvin Chardonnay characters of white stone fruit and yellow flowers are framed by subtle flinty toast characters. The palate displays a wonderful combination of both freshness and richness, with layers of peach, nectarine and citrus backed up with apple pastry and oatmeal, finishing with bright acidity and minerality.

SCENIC HOTEL MARLBOROUGH CHAMPION ROSÉ KŌPAREPARE MARLBOROUGH PINOT NOIR ROSÉ 2022

The 2022 Kōparepare Pinot Noir Rosé displays lifted raspberry, rhubarb, red apple, and watermelon fruit flavours, with a touch of spice. It is a medium-bodied wine with a creamy flowing texture, followed by a lengthy, soft finish. The grapes for our Pinot Noir Rosé were sourced from our estate vineyard in Rapaura, and our Little Alfred vineyard in the Southern Valleys. For every bottle sold, we donate to LegaSea - a nonprofit dedicated to the protection and restoration of New Zealand’s marine environment.

$37.99

$28.99

VITIS & WINEMAKERS CHAMPION SPARKLING WINE

DEUTZ PRESTIGE CUVÉE 2017

Deutz Prestige is a vintage wine, it is made using a selection of our best vineyard blocks and the best base wines to produce a complex, full-bodied wine with great length. Prestige should still show finesse, but the palate Is richer, fuller and longer.

WINE MARLBOROUGH

ALTERNATE

STYLE SAUVIGNON BLANC

TE PĀ OKE SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020

Aromatically the wine gives impressions of stone fruit, citrus blossom, and tropical notes, all supported by lightly smoked oak with just a hint of flint. The palate is equally complex and generous. Stone fruits are balanced by lemongrass and citrus themes. Flavours of vanilla pod, fennel, poached pear and melon are cleansed by a finish of lime driven citrus.

The oak provides a savoury foil to the wine; salted caramel and vanilla notes combined with smoke and spice. This wine is a celebration of Marlborough and is perfectly suited to fresh seafood and light poultry dishes.

CLASSIC OAK PRODUCTS CHAMPION PINOT NOIR CURRENT VINTAGE

MARISCO VINEYARDS ‘THE KING'S WRATH’ PINOT NOIR 2021

Black doris plum and cassis aromas are laced with savoury layers of forest floor and spiced oak. The full-bodied palate showcases a fine-grained tannin structure with underlying crushed blackberry, mocha and white pepper elements. The tannin structure creates an intense finish helping to carry the array of lively Marlborough fruit flavours.

QUAYCONNECT CHAMPION WINE OF THE SHOW

MARISCO VINEYARDS ‘THE KING'S WRATH’ PINOT NOIR 2021

Black doris plum and cassis aromas are laced with savoury layers of forest floor and spiced oak. The full-bodied palate showcases a fine-grained tannin structure with underlying crushed blackberry, mocha and white pepper elements. The tannin structure creates an intense finish helping to carry the array of lively Marlborough fruit flavours.

WINEWORKS CHAMPION SAUVIGNON BLANC 2022

VAVASOUR SAUVIGNON BLANC 2022

Our Sauvignon Blanc is complex and concentrated, with a unique oyster shell minerality, a creamy texture and an elegance that is unmistakably Awatere.

WINEWORKS CHAMPION SAUVIGNON BLANC 2021 & OLDER

VAVASOUR PAPA SAUVIGNON BLANC 2021

Vavasour Papa Sauvignon Blanc is complex and poised with notes of blackcurrant, elderflower and dried herbs on the nose. Layers of citrus peel and tropical flavours evolve on the palate to show a concentrated, textural and weighty palate. This wine has a long finish with a focused acid line and a salivating minerality. Paired beautifully with dishes incorporating fresh seafood, soft white cheeses, creamy pasta and fresh garden salads.

NEW ZEALAND INTERNATIONAL WINE SHOW

AWARDING WINES OF THE WORLD

TROPHIES 2022

Sir George Fistonich Medal for a Legend of New Zealand Wine: Celia Hay

CELIA HAY is an important pillar in New Zealand’s hospitality and wine industry. In 1995 she established The New Zealand School of Food and Wine in Christchurch, now located in Auckland’s Viaduct. Celia is

CHAMPION ROSÉ

SUGAR LOAF ROSÉ 2022

94 POINTS

A gorgeous bright pink in the glass, attractive aromas of fresh strawberry, cranberry and a touch of candyfloss. Juicy and refreshing with more strawberries and raspberries. Off-dry, fruit sweetness is nicely balanced with delicate acidity. Totally scrumptious.

the accomplished author of award-winning books such as The New Zealand Wine Guide and How to Grow Your Hospitality business: a guide for owners and managers. In Celia Hay’s acceptance speech for the Sir

CHAMPION RIESLING

SUGAR LOAF RIESLING 2022

96 POINTS

Beautifully perfumed with alluring aromas of jasmine, honeysuckle, lemon rind and lime. The palate is fresh with more citrus and peach. There’s a hint of fruit sweetness backed by bright juicy acidity – enjoy now or over the next 5 years.

George Fistonich Medal 2022 she explained that her driving goal is to continue to inspire others, especially young people, to learn more and seek out jobs in NZ’s dynamic hospitality, cooking and wine and beverages world.

CHAMPION SAUVIGNON BLANC

VAVASOUR SAUVIGNON BLANC 2022

96 POINTS

Concentrated aromas and flavours of passionfruit, fresh yellow stone fruits and a touch of pineapple with freshly cut summer herbs. The perfect summer wine, pair with fresh seafood? Delicious. A long lingering finish.

CHAMPION PINOT GRIS

GROVE MILL PINOT GRIS 2022

94 POINTS

Vivid straw gold with a lively bouquet of apple, pear and a touch of grapefruit follow through to the palate. Juicy and moreish, crisp and dry, excellent value.

CHAMPION GEWURZTRAMINER

SPY VALLEY GEWURZTRAMINER 2021

94 POINTS

An intense bouquet of rose petals, lychee and ginger spice with tropical fruit notes. Mango and more lychee weave through the palate with a hint of musk and rosewater. Powerful flavours flow smoothly with a long and lingering finish. Drier style.

CHAMPION OTHER WHITE VARIETIES

NAUTILUS ALBARINO 2022

96 POINTS

A wonderfully fragrant wine with apricots, peaches and mandarin zest. Flavoursome on the palate with fresh melon, honeysuckle and ripe zesty grapefruit.

CHAMPION SWEET WINE

GIESEN LATE HARVEST THE BROTHERS SAUVIGNON BLANC 2017

94 POINTS

Classic tropical fruit aromas, passionfruit, mango and guava with honey. Papaya and pineapple with a zing of citrus on a long and luscious super sweet finish. A dinner party treat.

CHAMPION CHAMPAGNE OR METHODE TRADITIONNELLE

CHAMPAGNE PALMER & CO BRUT RESERVE NV

95 POINTS

Deep lemon gold with a fine persistent bead. Abundant flavours with peaches, pears, nectarine, and citrus. Toasty and complex, a full bodied Champagne with buttery brioche, lemon zest and a creamy mouthfeel. Classy and moreish –outstanding.

CHAMPION CABERNET SAUVIGNON & PREDOMINANT BLENDS

D’ARENBERG THE COPPERMINE ROAD

2018, MCLAREN VALE

96 POINTS

Dark and brooding, this is a serious wine with rich, intense aromas of blackcurrants, roasted capsicum and tomato leaf. Dark juicy cherries and more blackcurrants on the palate. Fine grain tannins, long and persistent on the finish. Enjoy now or cellar with confidence over the next 20 years.

CHAMPION NEW ZEALAND SPARKLING

LINDAUER VINTAGE SERIES BRUT CUVÉE 2017

94 POINTS

Made from the classic blend of Chardonnay & Pinot Noir, it is rich & creamy with a tantalising & lingering finish. The bouquet has that classic Champagne character of freshly baked bread with masses of tiny bubbles in the glass. One of our most awarded sparkling wines. Brilliant value.

CHAMPION COMMERCIAL WHITE WINE

BRANCOTT LETTER “O”

CHARDONNAY 2021

96 POINTS

Flinty aromas which marry beautifully with stone fruit and citrus characters. The bountiful palate is rich, soft and full of peaches, cream and toasted hazelnuts all combining to give a textured and satisfying finish.

CHAMPION INTERNATIONAL RED WINE VARIETIES

TRINITY HILL GIMBLETT GRAVELS

TEMPRANILLO 2021

96 POINTS

Enticing aromas of blackberries, raspberries with cloves and subtle cinnamon spice. Succulent dark berry fruits are packed together densely with a dusting of cocoa and sweet spices. Long juicy and finishing fresh.

CHAMPION CHARDONNAY

CLEARVIEW RESERVE CHARDONNAY 2021

94 POINTS

Intensely fragrant with golden peach and toasty buttery brioche. The palate is complex with layers of grilled grapefruit, peaches, toasty oak and baking spice interweaving in perfect harmony. Mealy, nutty and rich, a superb Chardonnay. Another major award for this label.

CHAMPION MERLOT & PREDOMINANT BLENDS

TAYLORS ESTATE CLARE VALLEY

MERLOT 2021

94 POINTS

Medium to full bodied, this wine is not to be underestimated. Laden with dark berry fruits and plush black Doris plum with a hint of mocha. Super smooth and soft with velvety tannins. Great value drinking every time, every day.

CHAMPION SHIRAZ

LIONHEART OF THE BAROSSA

SHIRAZ 2021

96 POINTS

Deep, dense violet purple – nearly black in the glass. Blackberries, boysenberry and dark chocolate saturate the bouquet and the palate. Layers of dark fruit flavours are structured nicely by more savoury notes of black pepper and spicy oak.

CHAMPION NEW ZEALAND SYRAH & CHAMPION SYRAH

TRINITY HILL GIMBLETT GRAVELS SYRAH 2020

94 POINTS

Inky black red with savoury aromas of peppery spice and leather with blackberries and currants. Concentrated rich and meaty, a full-bodied Syrah with a lingering aftertaste of succulent and juicy red berry fruits.

CHAMPION COMMERCIAL RED WINE

SOHO BOBBY MARLBOROUGH PINOT

NOIR 2021

95 POINTS

Fragrant aromas of dark cherries, violets and baking spices. Dark plums, blackberries and more cherries on the palate with nutmeg, cinnamon and savoury, earthy undertones, fine velvety tannins. An elegant wine offering top value drinking.

CHAMPION PINOT NOIR

WILD EARTH RESERVE EARTH & SKY

PINOT NOIR 2021

96 POINTS

CHAMPION NEW ZEALAND BORDEAUX RED WINE

MISSION RESERVE MERLOT 2020

94 POINTS

Dark plums, blueberry and dried mixed herbs carry through from the bouquet to the palate. Excellent fruit concentration with a hint of cassis, rich and spicy on the finish.

CHAMPION WINE COMPANY OF THE YEAR

HANCOCKS

CHAMPION FORTIFIED WINE

YALUMBA ANTIQUE MUSCAT NV

96 POINTS

An after dinner treat perfect for Christmas, decadent notes of rose petals, raisins and Black Forest flood the bouquet. Layers of luscious flavour include fruit cake, toffee, ginger and oak spice.

Lifted and savoury nose with cherry, blackberry, lilac, sandalwood, wild thyme and a hint of mushroom. This is an intensely concentrated expression of the Bannockburn sub-region with lovely bramble fruit, florals and a hint of leather supported by fine tannins that are intricately woven around the fresh acidity. This Pinot Noir is both sophisticated and “classic”, expressing intensity and poise from great sites in a stellar sub-region. On opening this wine benefits from some oxygen and it will certainly reward those who choose to cellar it with a wonderful journey of development for at least 10+years. Seductively plush with a superbly long silky finish.

CHAMPION WINE OF THE SHOW

WILD EARTH RESERVE EARTH & SKY

PINOT NOIR 2021

CHAMPION WINEMAKER OF THE SHOW

STU MARFELL – FOLEY WINES LTD

Gold medal Askerne

Askerne Estate winery commenced in April 1993 when wine lovers John and Kathryn

Loughlin purchased the original 11.6 hectares site in Te Mata Mangateretere Road. They called the property Askerne, being the olde English name of Kathryn’s birthplace, Askern in Yorkshire, England.

Sauvignon Blanc vines were planted in late 1993, Semillon and Riesling in 1994, Chardonnay in 1995 and Gewürztraminer in 1996.

In 2004 reserve tier wines were produced, reserve Chardonnay and reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot Cabernet Franc blend. The Cabernet Sauvignon dominant Reserve blend and a Merlot dominant blend both won gold medals from this vintage.

The 2005 vintage saw the first multi-awarded wine with our Gewürztraminer winning double golds.

The 2018 vintage proved to be a great one and saw the launch of two of the planned new wine styles being a Sauvignon Blanc / Sauvignon Gris / Semillon blend and the first of the Icon series of wines in “The Archer” Chardonnay.

From the 2020 vintage we added a new product to our range, being the first Sérieux rosé

which was made from a blend of Carménère and Mourvèdre.

In January 2021 Cairn Coghill joined the Askerne team as winemaker. The 2021 vintage saw great weather for the fourth consecutive vintage. The first Fleurty rosé and Barbera wines were made. This year also saw great show results with Pinot Gris, Chardonnays, Viognier, Syrah and Sérieux Rosé, from the 2019 to 2021 vintages taking out seven Gold medals and three trophies.