Central Otago’s reputation as a world-class wine region continues to rise, with McArthur Ridge’s Southern Tor Pinot Noir 2023 earning a coveted Platinum medal at the 2025 Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA). It is the only New Zealand wine to receive the Platinum accolade this year, placing it in the top 0.7% of more than 18,000 entries worldwide.
This marks the fourth consecutive year of international recognition for the Alexandra-based label and a back-to-back Decanter win for Southern Tor, which took home Best in Show at the 2024 competition.
The 2023 vintage impressed judges with what was described as “phenomenal layers of crushed raspberry, plum, black cherry and dried herbs amid moments of vanilla and baking spice. Stately and plush with juicy acidity and scores of ardent tannins which lay the foundations for ageing.” Their final verdict? Simply, “Divine.”
Jason Dellaca, sales and marketing director at McArthur Ridge, says the ongoing recognition is both humbling and motivating. “It’s a pinch-me moment,” says Dellaca. “We’re not chasing trophies– we’re crafting wines to savour. So, to see our work consistently recognised at this level is incredibly rewarding for the whole team.”
Winemaker Matt Connell attributes the wine’s expressive profile to its distinctive terroir in Alexandra, the most continental subregion of Central Otago. “There’s something special about this place,” Connell says. “Our vineyard is perched on a raised plateau, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The extreme temperature shifts and extended ripening season let us create wines with real character and depth.”
In a further boost for the boutique producer, McArthur Ridge’s Fall Dam Pinot Gris 2023 also secured a Gold medal, signalling a strong debut for the label’s growing white wine portfolio.
With both accolades drawing international attention, the winery is now planning to expand its global presence. “We’ve had more overseas interest this year than ever before,” adds Dellaca. “These awards help not only our brand, but also continue to cement Central Otago’s reputation as one of the world’s truly special wine regions.”
