The judges have done their work, all the medals have been decided and the Trophies announced at the 2024 NZ International Wine Show – this country’s largest wine judging competition.
This year at the NZ International Wine Show, Pinot Noir numbers were up, Chardonnay numbers were up and more than 200 entries in the important Sauvignon Blanc category gave us a good look at what mother nature gave us from the excellent vintage in Marlborough.
100 of the Sauvignon Blancs came from 2024 and the judges awarded 6 Double Gold and 23 Gold medals to these exciting new wines. A good sign for the vintage.
Chardonnay was another standout class with the judges very impressed with the overall standard, awarding 8 Double Gold and 21 Gold medals.
Pinot Noir once again excelled with the awarding of 6 Double Gold and 30 Gold Medals – 17 from Otago and 13 from Marlborough.
Rosé continues it’s popularity and a total of 113 wines were entered into this category – the result, 4 Double Gold and 14 Gold medals and they come from producing ares all over the country.
Once again for the 20th year Bob Campbell MW was the Chief Judge and he was supported by Assistant Chief Judges Larry McKenna, John Hancock and Tony Bish along with 18 senior judges.
The good number of entries is a clear indication of the respect wineries have for seriously judged wine competitions.
Champion Winemaker of the Year – CHRIS SCOTT, CHURCH ROAD WINERY
Once again the wines produced by Church Road Chief Winemaker Chris Scott have excelled at the NZ International Wine Show. It was a year of success with awards of two Trophies, two Double Gold medals and 11 Gold medals.
The gold medals came from a wide range of varieties including Merlot, Malbec, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir and also Methode Traditionnelle… A brilliant result from one of the top winemakers.
Champion Wine Company of the Year – EUROVINTAGE
Eurovintage had an amazing competition with more medals and Trophy awards than any company in the 20 years of the New Zealand International Wine Show. Four Trophies and 40 Double Gold or Gold medals.
Champion Wine of the Show – McArthur Ridge Southern Tor Pinot Noir 2023
Ruby red in colour with a bouquet of savoury red berry fruit, black cherry and vanilla that combine with aromas of Black Forest berries, cloves and dark violets, finishing with soft stony notes. Generous on the palate with a core of fruit, savoury tannins give it great texture. The oak influence is obvious with baking spices and smokiness. Another Central Otago Star.
Sir George Fistonich Medal Recipient – Sam Kim, Wine Orbit
Sam Kim, Wine Writer & publisher of Wine Orbit, reviewing New Zealand wines and wines of the world. Senior wine judge, has judged at every New Zealand International Wine Show plus many others, has had 35 + years in NZ hospitality, wine retail, importing and distribution, as well as running wine courses and master classes. Also, treasured member of the (weekly) Wednesday night First Glass tasting team.