Every year, wine enthusiasts, connoisseurs, and industry professionals anticipate the New Zealand International Wine Show (NZIWS). Established in 2005, this prestigious wine competition has steadily gained recognition in the world of wine. With each year, the number of entries has grown, encompassing wines from countries across the globe. This year, we are pleased to share that Saint Clair Family Estate has been awarded an impressive eleven gold medals.
One of the incredible aspects of the NZIWS is its ability to attract wines from a diverse array of countries. While Australian entries consistently make a significant presence, the show also draws considerable interest from wineries in France, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Argentina, and the USA. This global representation is a testament to the show's standing on the international wine stage.
The Respected Judging Panel
At the heart of the NZIWS is its esteemed panel of judges, led by Master of Wine Bob Campbell. As New Zealand's foremost wine show educator and the country's top wine judge, Bob Campbell brings a wealth of expertise and experience to the competition. He is joined by 22 equally experienced judges, forming a panel with unique knowledge and passion.
The Standout Results
The NZIWS 2023 produced some outstanding results for Saint Clair, that highlight the exceptional quality and diversity of wines entered. These results span across three Saint Clair ranges and demonstrate our winemaking commitment to quality across all price points.
Saint Clair James Sinclair Pinot Noir 2021 (Double Gold): This Pinot Noir has just won its second gold medal from the 2023 competition season, standing out with its exceptional quality, earning a coveted Double Gold medal from the NZIWS judging panel.
Saint Clair Pioneer Block 10 Twin Hills Chardonnay 2021 (Gold): Another Gold medal for the Pioneer Block 10 Chardonnay after awarding well in the Aotearoa Regional Wine Competition 2023.
Saint Clair Pioneer Block 2 Swamp Block Sauvignon Blanc 2023 (Gold): Sauvignon Blanc lovers have reason to rejoice with this wine's gold medal, it is the first vintage release for the Swamp Block since 2015!
Saint Clair Wairau Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2023 (Gold): Our Decorated Wairau Reserve has won over 25 gold medals in the last 5 years. The Saint Clair team are elated to see that the 2023 release is continuing to lead in its varietal category.
Saint Clair Pioneer Block 5 Bull Block Grüner Veltliner 2021 (Gold): An Austrian classic, Grüner Veltliner, shines in the New Zealand wine scene with this gold medal.
Saint Clair Pioneer Block 28 Camp Block Pinot Blanc 2020 (Gold): Pinot Blanc enthusiasts will appreciate the recognition of this wine's quality.
Saint Clair James Sinclair Malbec 2021 (Gold): A second gold medal for this 2021 release, a testament to New Zealand's versatility in producing not only Sauvignon Blanc but also delicious reds like Malbec.
Saint Clair Gimblett Gravels Reserve Syrah 2021 (Gold): The only Saint Clair reserve red grown in the Gimblett Gravels Winegrowing District of Hawkes Bay.
Saint Clair Omaka Reserve Pinot Noir 2021 (Gold): Another Reserve red that has been tasted and awarded by Bob Campbell before in The Real Review – 5 Stars. The team are pleased to see the consistency in judging by rating this wine worthy of a gold medal.
Saint Clair Pioneer Block 5 Bull Block Pinot Noir 2021 (Gold): Bull Block is named after the stud Jersey bulls that previously grazed on this vineyard site.
Saint Clair Pioneer Block 14 Doctors Creek Pinot Noir 2021 (Gold): Yet another Pinot Noir from the Pioneer Range, full of fresh flavours of raspberries and wild bramble notes.
These brilliant results from the 2023 NZIWS demonstrate the remarkable skill and dedication of the winemakers at Saint Clair Family Estate and from around the world. Please raise a glass to all the winners and participants of the 2023 New Zealand International Wine Show, and a huge thank you to the show organisers who bought it all together.
