New Zealand’s diverse wine styles have stolen the show at the prestigious UK-based International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC). In the results released last month New Zealand wines beat all international competition to win not only the international Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir Trophies, but the Chardonnay Trophy as well, while Gold Outstanding Medals went to a Gewürztraminer and a dessert Riesling.
The IWSC Sauvignon Blanc Trophy was awarded to The Crossings Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2013, the Bouchard Finlayson Pinot Noir Trophy to Ceres Composition Central Otago Pinot Noir 2010 and the Mission Hill Chardonnay Trophy to Jules Taylor Wines Marlborough Chardonnay 2012 (on-premise blend). From the 11 Gold Medals awarded to New Zealand wines this year, Gold Outstanding medals were awarded to Misha's Vineyard Verismo Central Otago Pinot Noir 2010, Waimea Nelson Gewurztraminer 2011 and Seifried Winemakers Collection 'Sweet Agnes' Nelson Riesling 2013.
“I think New Zealand is quietly harnessing a number of varieties to support and sustain the momentum of Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir and I'm struck by the spread of varieties and styles winning top awards in the New Zealand category this year,” says Angela Reddin, one of the New Zealand panel chairs at this year’s IWSC.
“The Chardonnays were impressive,” she says. “As tastes and fashions swing back towards Chardonnay, it is heartening to see such beautiful wines, with excellent precision and depth being made in New Zealand.”
“It’s been a huge surprise and I’m stoked about the win,” says Jules Taylor on her Chardonnay’s success. “I certainly didn’t expect the wine to score so well in a tough competition of wines from traditional Chardonnay regions. But it’s a great recognition not only for me as a winemaker and the brand, but also for Marlborough that produces some outstanding Chardonnays that speak of the region.”
The UK-based International Wine and Spirit Competition is one of the leading competitions of its kind and aims to promote the quality and excellence of the world’s best wines, spirits and liqueurs.
