New Zealand wine’s gold rush
New Zealand wineries won 15 gold medals at the 2005 International Wine Challenge – twice the number won in 2004. New
Zealand was the only still wine producing country to increase its gold medal count at the event held in London this
month.
New Zealand Winegrowers global marketing director, Chris Yorke, says the gold increase is made up almost entirely of red
wines, showing the impact New Zealand red varietals are beginning to make on the world stage. According to Wine
International magazine, New Zealand was the only country where more than half of the red wines entered (56 percent)
gained medals.
“New Zealand is a small wine producing country with a big reputation for quality. This increase in gold medals and the
outstanding red wine performance clearly demonstrates New Zealand’s continuing commitment to producing exceptional
wines,” said Mr Yorke.
Walking away with both the International Pinot Noir trophy for St Clair Doctors Creek Marlborough Pinot Noir 2003 and
the International Sauvignon Blanc trophy for Sileni Estates Cellar Selection Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2004 was the
icing on the cake for New Zealand.
ENDS