New Zealand is famous for its award-winning Sauvignon Blanc. In fact, some wine critics claim it’s the world’s finest white wine. New Zealand wineries are some of the best worldwide!

However, the country also produces other amazing wines, among various brands including Syrahs, Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs and Rieslings. In fact, the best New Zealand wine brands are so popular they rank among the country’s top ten exports.

New Zealand wineries range from small boutiques to large commercial farms. And, most wineries focus on biodynamic and sustainable farming methods. In fact, the country is one of the most sought-after travel destinations for wine tourism. Because of its viticulture and the great wines produced by the best wineries.
Visit any of the following 4 wine estates that rank among the best New Zealand Wineries. To explore the country’s wine regions and enjoy some of the best New Zealand wines.

New Zealand Wineries: 2017

Rippon Vineyard

The family-owned winery is on Lake Wanaka’s shores in Central Otago. An area considered the southernmost wine-growing region in the world. In 1975, the estate planted the first wine grapes in the vineyard and in 1989 the winery released its first commercial vintage.

Rippon vineyard depends on a holistic view of wine agriculture. So, it practices biodynamic farming and they do not irrigate the soil. Thus, the vines grown are true to the terroir and they produce outstanding Pinot Noir and dry Riesling wines.

To taste great wines in a spectacular location, visit Rippon Vineyard. You can access the winery by road or by walking along the shore from Wanaka. Most people prefer to walk as they get to enjoy the breathtaking sights of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains.

The estate does not charge for wine tasting. But, you are free to donate towards the “pot of love”. The contributions collected go towards the winery’s ongoing Habitat Restoration project. Furthermore, guests are welcome to visit the winery any time during the opening hours. However, if you are in a group of more than 6 people, call ahead to ensure the staff can accommodate you for a tasting.

Check out the best New Zealand Wines of 2018!

New Zealand wineries are famous for their viticulture and the award-winning wines they produce.

The judges, get tasked to offer no awards or medals if they won’t import, distribute, buy or promote it in their businesses. This is primarily based on product and charge category. Judges of the Berlin Wine Competition assess the wine in silence.

That is until all panel members have finished their evaluation. Then the panel opens a dialogue to reach a consensus. Judge votes go recorded by using a special BIWC workforce moderator. If there is an extensive difference among a few of the judges’ votes there is a system. This system is as follows: in this wine competition, panelists reach a consensus and search for the opinion of the top judge, Adam Levy.

Past Winners

Lakewood Vineyards 2016 – Riesling – Gold medal

Created in the Finger Lakes, this 2016 Riesling fits perfectly in-between both dry and sweet. There is not a palate in the world that would reject this delectable wine and it pairs great with cheeses of the region. Not only is this wine elegant and lovely in color, but it is quite affordable at just $14. The best part about this wine? It is fruit forward and leaves its consumers in a bouquet of excellence. This was well worth a Berlin wine trophy.

Babich 2017 – Sauvignon Blanc – Silver

Awarded the silver medal, this lovely Sauvignon Blanc went awarded the Silver medal years Berlin wine competition. This of course if for many reasons. For starters, it is downright tasty. Secondly, it stands out from other Sauvignon Blancs due to flavor and scent profiles. It is especially choice if you are a fan of seafood as it pairs perfectly; especially with fresh oysters.

Once this beautiful bottle goes uncorked your senses enlighten away and you get hints of gooseberry and lantana, with a finishing flavor of slight grapefruit. It is a mineral rich wine that is also herbal, making for a special treat for Berlin wine lovers. During the Berlin Wine Competition, judges found this wine to be with flavor, ranging from lemon to spice. Lastly, it has a medium weight and perfect texture.

Suvla Wines 2014 – Reserve Merlot – Bronze

Finally, this reserve Merlot went awarded a Bronze medal among other Berlin wine at the Berlin Wine Competition. Remember, a bronze medal is nothing to sneeze at, at a wine contest of this size; especially when it comes to Berlin wines. Once opened, you receive notes of elderberry and fresh blackberry. Additionally, plum and black cherry linger somewhere within the layers of this award-winning wine.

The balance of the fruit and acidity here are beyond compare, with the perfect tannins. Finally, this wine ends by chicory and clove with a little bit of chocolate right at the end. This wine comes highly recommended and is quite affordable. Uncork and drink up.