The coveted Royal Easter Show Wine Awards is thrilled to share a ‘behind the scenes’ look at the esteemed judging for the 2020 Royal Easter Show Wine Awards. The 2020 winners will be announced at the awards dinner on Saturday 7th March at The Pullman Hotel in Auckland.
Judges Wendy Stuckey, Deputy Chair Jane Cooper and Chair of Judges Mike DeGaris
In its 68th year the prestigious event has garnered over 850 entrants from 98 wineries across New Zealand. The largest entrant being Sauvignon Blanc with 169 wines, followed by Pinot Noir with 147 entries. Chardonnay has 137 in its category with Pinot Gris a bountiful 103 and the ever-popular Rosé has also increased in entries this year!
Sophie Harris Wine Judge
The 2020 judging panel consists of 22 judges including the hallowed Jane Faulkner from Australia. Eight of the 22 judging panel are associate judges in training. The 2020 Chair of Judges is Mike DeGaris and Deputy Chair is Jane Cooper.
Greg Lane Wine Judge
The other esteemed judges are; Jane Skilton MW, Dr Rebecca Deed, Wendy Stuckey, Olly Masters, Greg Lane, Matt Kirby, Ant McKenzie, James Hillard, Michael Bann, Paul Harré, Dave Roper and associate judges JP Henderson, Michael Turner, Janine Rickards, Sam Dunleavy, Nigel Cottle, Sophie Harris, Marc Udy and Renée Dale.
Chair of Judges, Mike DeGaris states “The entries have been fantastic wines. Previous medal winners and reputable producers once again participating. There is a diverse range of styles represented in this year’s competition. It is especially wonderful to welcome international judging with Jane Faulkner from Australia who also has background in wine journalism. The judging and stewards are all volunteers who donate their time for the industry and community and rely on their owners to grant them time to attend.”
Wendy Stuckey Wine Judge
The Royal Easter Show Wine Awards celebrates the excellence in achievement that New Zealand continue to deliver throughout the world.
To secure tickets to the 2020 awards dinner contact Ashlynn Waaka-Iraia on
09 623 7725 or email her at ashlynn@asbshowgrounds.co.nz.