Martinborough pinot strikes gold

Last updated 08:24 22/11/2009

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A Martinborough pinot noir has taken the top trophy in this year's Air New Zealand wine awards.

The Julicher Pinot Noir 2008, produced by Julicher Estate, was named Champion Wine of the Show at last night's awards ceremony in Christchurch.

It was the first time in the competition's almost 30-year history that a Martinborough pinot noir had taken top honours and the win was "truly deserved", said judges' chairman Steve Smith, a Master of Wine.

"The Julicher Pinot Noir 2008 is a true example of New Zealand Pinot Noir at its best, featuring a deep brooding black cherry colour, dusty plum and autumn forests on the nose," he said.

A Central Otago Riesling - Olssens Annieburn Riesling 2009 - was named top sustainable wine.

Thirty-eight elite gold medals, including two pure elite gold medals (awarded to sustainably-produced wines) were also awarded to wines from eight of New Zealand's 10 key winegrowing regions.

The gold, silver and bronze medals were announced on November 11.

This year's awards attracted 1655 entries.

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- NZPA