Liquorland announces 2006 Top 100 wine competition

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27 February 2006

Liquorland announces 2006 Top 100 wine competition

The 2006 Liquorland Top 100 International Wine Competition will be held from the 29th to the 31st August. The competition returns to the Westpac Stadium in Wellington with some of New Zealand’s most experienced wine judges and a number of highly respected international palates. Andrew Bartley, Liquorland’s merchandise manager says, “We had such tremendous trade and consumer support for the Liquorland Top 100 last year, so we are pleased to confirm this year’s event at such an early stage.”

Entries for the competition are received from wine producers, agents and distributors from New Zealand, Australia and most other wine-producing countries around the world. The comprehensive range of wine being judged makes this competition the ideal platform for reviewing developments in wine style and quality, providing a valuable resource for both the industry and consumers.

Gary Graham, of New Zealand’s largest wine producer, Allied Domecq says, “to be able to have our wines judged alongside small-to-large international and boutique wineries is very beneficial. This combined with Liquorland’s marketing, has resulted in a very successful promotion for our company.”

New Zealand sales and marketing manager for Zilzie Wines Australia, Lisa Madarasz says, “The 2003 Liquorland Top 100 successfully launched Zilzie Wines into the New Zealand market. Winning a trophy in 2005 has given the brand credibility with New Zealand consumers and increased our sales more than two-fold. In a highly competitive and cluttered market, the consumer and trade recognition this award has given us has been immeasurable.”

Sally Lewis, General Manager of Astrolabe Wines also endorsed the competition saying, “It was a great honour for Astrolabe to win the ‘Wine of the Show’ trophy at the 2005 Liquorland Top 100. The successful promotion of the Top 100 wines throughout the country not only generated amazing sales for us, but significantly raised the awareness of our brand in only a few short months, far beyond our initial expectations.”

This year’s management team will again be headed up by competition director, Belinda Jackson. “I thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of running last year’s competition and look forward to making further improvements based on that experience.” Chief Judge Brent Marris says, “This was one of the most positive judging experiences for myself and all the judges involved. Many have asked to come back and we are looking forward to a very strong line-up”. Chief Steward will again be Shona White and competition administration will be handled by Margaret Cresswell.

For further information concerning entries, stewarding positions or any other queries, please contact Competition Director Belinda Jackson belindajackson@xtra.co.nz, 027 444 8 666

ENDS

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