Ascension Wine Estate Wins Northland Award

Press release – 23 June 2008, for immediate release

Ascension Wine Estate wins “Outstanding Northland Winery” Award

Ascension Wine Estate at Matakana has been announced winner of the “Outstanding Northland Winery Award” at the 2008 Mata-ariki Awards and Indigenous Gala Dinner organized by Northland Chefs and held at Whangarei’s Forum North on Friday night.

The Mata-ariki Industry Awards recognize the standard and achievements of those in the Northland region who strive to be the best, and are the ultimate awards for the important wine and food sectors of Northland’s hospitality industry.

The judges commented that “Ascension has that often indefinable “X factor” which makes it stand out from the rest of the pack. This establishment is a place where loyal customers come back to again and again because of its focus on wine varietals and customer service”. The judges recognized the “total wine experience” that visitors receive at Ascension including food with a focus on local produce, and a wide range of entertainment.

The other two finalists for the award were Okahu Estate from Kaitaia, and Karikari Estate at Doubtless Bay.

“The great thing about this award is that it recognizes the contribution of the whole team at Ascension”, says owner Darryl Soljan. “It is not just the vineyard or winemaking team who won this, but also the kitchen and front of house crew, the admin team and of course our excellent staff in the Cellar Door”.

A number of staff attended the black-tie dinner with Darryl and his wife Bridget, enjoying an evening hosted by April Iremia and featuring indigenous Northland cuisine prepared by Northland chefs, accompanied with local wine.

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