Sweet success for New Zealand wine
Results released today show New Zealand wines have triumphed at the prestigious UK-based International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC). New Zealand scooped not only the show’s top Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc Trophies, but a
slew of top medals that included a record number of dessert wines.
New Zealand continued its tradition of beating all international entrants to win the Pinot Noir Trophy with the Takapoto
Single Vineyard Bannockburn Central Otago Pinot Noir 2012 and the Sauvignon Blanc Trophy with the Tesco Finest* North
Row Vineyard Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2016 made by Villa Maria. It also delivered a gold medal haul that spanned a
diverse array of styles, which included a noble Sauvignon from Marisco Vineyards, a late harvest Sauvignon from Giesen
and a botrytised Riesling from Oyster Bay.
“New Zealand’s Trophy wins at this year’s competition show that the country remains at the top of its game with these
varieties,” commented IWSC NZ Panel Chair, Jo Burzynska. “However, it was also encouraging to see the other styles the
country can do so well gain international recognition, such as the dessert wines that were highly awarded at this year’s
show.”
“We are delighted with the results New Zealand wines achieved at IWSC this year. It’s great see a continued focus on
premium Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, as well recognition of the quality coming from a wide range of other New Zealand
wine styles”, said Philip Gregan, New Zealand Winegrowers CEO.
ENDS