Martinborough success at wine competition

28 September 2005

Martinborough success at prestigious wine competition

Wines from Martinborough came out on top amongst the best in the world at the respected International Wine and Spirit Competition in London. Four bronzes plus a silver (Best in class) were achieved by wineries in Martinborough.

The International Wine and Spirit Competition is the premier competition of its kind in the world. Its aim is to promote the quality and excellence of the world's best wines, spirits and liqueurs.

Pinot Noir was a highlight with Te Kairanga Wines Reserve Pinot noir 2003 winning Silver (Best in class). Other Martinborough successes in the Pinot noir category were Kupe Escarpment and Ma Maison.

Martinborough Vineyard Chardonnay 2003 and Te Kairanga Reserve Chardonnay 2003 achieved Bronze's also.

Andrew Shackleton, Managing Director of Te Kairanga Wines said "It's an honour for such a small wine region to achieve these awards in the international arena. We are particularly thrilled about our successes as we approach our 25 year anniversary."

"Lucky visitors to Toast Martinborough will be able to taste the acclaimed Reserve Pinot Noir at Te Kairanga during the festival on 20 November. Unfortunately the Chardonnay is sold out."

The 2003 vintage in Martinborough was very small cropping but high quality, particularly for the Pinot noir variety.

Martinborough wine region produces less than 2% of New Zealand's total wine production which makes these awards a great achievement. Martinborough wineries are typically family-owned and relatively small, with the focus on producing quality rather than quantity. Relatively small yields enable Martinborough winemakers to devote themselves to handcrafting superior wines.

ENDS

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