Wines take top honours
12 Nov 2007
Two New Zealand wines have beaten tough competition to claim top honours at a prestigious international wine competition.
Villa Maria's Pinot Noir and Vavasour's Sauvignon Blanc have been voted the best in the world at the International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC) in the UK.
Makers of Vavasour Sauvignon Blanc - made in Marlborough region's Awatere Valley - hope the award will put them on the international map.
"The Northern Hemisphere has finally caught on," beamed Vavasour.
Competition judges say the Sav's 'fine aroma' and 'lingering finish' make it the best.
Villa Maria's Pinot Noir has also been voted top of its category and best wine producer in New Zealand.
"It literally means it is the best of the best for that particular variety," says competition Director Alan Gibbons.
New Zealand wines - known as new world wines- have been soaring in popularity recently, winning numerous awards.
As well as their premium quality, their accessible price has made them a favorite with wine drinkers the world over.
"New Zealand is right up there," says Gibbons. "Undoubtedly these days New Zealand is a premier ranked country in wine production."
It is the second year running that New Zealand wines have won the categories of best Sauvignon Blanc and best Pinot Noir.
You can pick up a bottle of the award winning Vavasour Sauvignon Blanc for around $20.
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