As we approach 2025, New Zealand’s vibrant wine scene continues to dazzle, blending beloved classics with fresh offerings.
From the crisp zing of Sauvignon Blanc to the luscious depth of Chardonnay and the intricate profiles of Pinot Noir, this stunning South Pacific nation showcases a remarkable variety.
Trends this year hint at emerging favorites, signaling which wines will likely maintain their stronghold in the market.
Top New Zealand Wines
Leading the charge is the renowned Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, a staple that has claimed the top position for several consecutive years.
Established by David Hohnen in 1985—who had previously made waves in Western Australia—Cloudy Bay elevated New Zealand’s Sauvignon Blanc to international acclaim.
The appeal of Cloudy Bay persists, thanks to its role as a trailblazer in the local wine industry and its consistent excellence.
Wine critics rave about its vibrant fruit character and complex flavor profiles, making it a fantastic choice for cellaring for up to a decade.
It boasts an aggregate score of 90 points.
David Allen, a distinguished Master of Wine, described the 2022 vintage as rich and intense, highlighting flavors like peapod, asparagus, and gooseberry, balanced by fresh citrus and underlying mineral notes.
Surprisingly, Cloudy Bay remains reasonably priced, averaging around $32, only a slight increase from $27 a decade ago.
Emerging Favorites
Next on the list is the illustrious Maté’s Vineyard Chardonnay by Kumeu River, a venerable West Auckland winery founded in 1944 by the Brajkovich family.
This winery has gained a reputation for producing exquisite Chardonnays, many often compared to those of Burgundy.
Notably, their wines triumphed over renowned Burgundies in a notable blind tasting back in 2014.
The Maté’s Vineyard Chardonnay honors Maté Brajkovich, an influential figure in New Zealand’s wine circle and the son of the winery’s founders.
It boasts a remarkable 93-point aggregated score, with Wine Enthusiast praising the 2021 vintage for its delicate notes of citrus, pear, and floral hints, beautifully intertwined with subtle toasty flavors.
This distinguished white wine is priced at around $71, a significant rise from its $43 price tag in 2015.
In third place, the Te Mata Estate’s Coleraine Bordeaux blend, a classic encapsulating the character of Hawke’s Bay since 1854, continues to stand out.
A harmonious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, Coleraine achieves an impressive 94-point aggregate score.
Cameron Douglas MS noted its captivating palate filled with olive notes and complex fruit flavors, all underpinned by the energy of new barrels.
At approximately $89, Coleraine offers a sophisticated yet accessible option for aficionados of Bordeaux-style wines.
The celebrated Ata Rangi Pinot Noir ranks fourth, hailing from a Martinborough estate that has gained international recognition, even earning New Zealand’s first Grand Cru title.
The Ata Rangi Pinot Noir holds an aggregated 93 points, with Wine Enthusiast describing the 2020 vintage as a classic, showcasing a rich bouquet of spices layered with cherry cola notes.
This well-regarded Pinot Noir retails for about $65, reflecting an increase from $53 in 2015.
Wine Selection Highlights
Fifth on our list is the Greywacke Sauvignon Blanc, another cherished Marlborough offering crafted by winemaker Kevin Judd, who also made a name for himself at Cloudy Bay.
With an aggregated score of 91 points, the 2021 vintage has drawn praise from Raymond Chan for its complex layers of lime and elderflower balanced with refinement.
Priced at $22, it has seen a slight rise from $20 in 2015.
Next, we have the Stonyridge Vineyard Larose, a luxurious Bordeaux blend that recently captivated tasters, securing a solid 91 points aggregate.
Found on a picturesque island in the Hauraki Gulf, this prestigious wine is priced at $211, considered a fair investment for its quality.
Ranked seventh is the cult-favorite Kusuda Pinot Noir, making waves in Japan with an impressive aggregated score of 93 points.
Its price of $256 represents a significant leap from its value of $83 in 2015.
Eighth on the list is Felton Road’s Bannockburn Pinot Noir, which earned a commendable score of 92 points.
Cameron Douglas MS highlighted the 2023 vintage for its layered complexity and delightful fragrance.
This exceptional wine can be found for about $55, just above its $46 price a decade ago.
In ninth place is another standout from Felton Road, the Block 5 Pinot Noir, which ages for around 16 to 17 months in barrels and enjoys an aggregated score of 93.
Its current price of $112 reflects a gradual increase from $87 in 2015.
Finally, securing the tenth spot is the Cloudy Bay Te Koko Sauvignon Blanc, renowned for its unique indigenous yeast fermentation and aging in French oak.
This intriguing wine garnered an aggregated score of 91 points and is available for $60.
This year’s selection showcases a delightful mix of vibrant Sauvignon Blancs, elegant Bordeaux blends, and refined Pinot Noirs, reinforcing New Zealand’s reputation in the wine world.
Whether you’re celebrating occasions like Waitangi Day or simply enjoying a fine evening, these wines promise to delight.
Source: Wine-searcher
