Saint Clair Family Estate is thrilled to announce a major win at the National Wine Awards of Aotearoa New Zealand 2025.
At the celebration lunch held on Sunday in Auckland, long-standing growers John and Lynne Walsh were in attendance to receive the prestigious Antipodes Trophy for Champion Riesling for the Saint Clair Pioneer Block 9 ‘Big John’ Riesling 2025.
Gold medals were announced in early October, and Saint Clair were also proudly awarded:
⭐️ GOLD – Saint Clair Pioneer Block 9 Big John Riesling 2025
⭐️ GOLD – Saint Clair Pioneer Block 10 Twin Hills Chardonnay 2022
⭐️ GOLD – Saint Clair Origin Marlborough Rosé 2024
Named ‘Big John’ in honour of John’s 6ft 8 stature, the fruit is grown by John and Lynne Walsh in their meticulously maintained vineyard in Marlborough’s central Wairau Valley. With close to 25 years of partnership with Saint Clair, it was a special moment for the couple to celebrate the success of a wine crafted from their carefully grown Riesling grapes.
The Saint Clair Pioneer Block 9 Big John Riesling 2025 is an elegant and luscious Riesling with superb balance between residual sugar and the vibrant acidity.
Saint Clair Family Estate's success at the National Wine Awards demonstrates the commitment to producing exceptional wines that capture the essence of New Zealand's unique terroir.
Saint Clair recognise the outstanding dedication to quality and excellence by the collaboration that exists between growers, winemakers and every member of the Saint Clair Family Estate team.
About the Awards:
Since its inception in 2022, the National Wine Awards of Aotearoa New Zealand has recognised and celebrated excellence in New Zealand wine. It's a testament to the dedication and passion of the people involved in the wine industry in New Zealand.
Chair of Judges, Jane Cooper, notes:
What a fabulous few days judging we have had! The wines were of a very high standard, with the best wines really showing their sense of place and the care and attention given to them by the vineyard and winery teams. Congratulations to all.
Saint Clair would like to thank the judging panel and the team of organisers behind the National Wine Awards. A great deal of passion, hard work and dedication from the entire New Zealand wine industry goes into making these wines of excellence. Congratulations to all involved.
