NZ Wines On Top

New Zealand’s reputation as one of the world’s leading producers of high-end wine was reaffirmed at this year’s International Wine Challenge in London where it won international trophies for both Syrah and Sauvignon Blanc. Kennedy Point Vineyard, a tiny winery started 10 years ago on Waiheke Island, won the International Trophy for its 2007 Syrah, while Marlborough’s Clifford Bay Awatere Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2008 was awarded the International Sauvignon Blanc Trophy. The International Wine Challenge (IWC) is considered one of the world’s largest and most influential independent wine competitions. This year’s competition received over 9,500 entries from a record 41 countries. The rigorous three stage judging process involves more than 300 judges including Masters of Wine, winemakers, senior wine buyers and wine writers.