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Marisco Vineyards shines at
IWC 2026

Marisco Vineyards is celebrating another year of successes at the International Wine Challenge (IWC) 2026 in London, with two Trophies and an array of medals across the portfolio.

The IWC is widely acknowledged as the world’s most rigorous, impartial, influential and global wine competition.

The IWC 2026 Trophy winners recognise the standout wines that rose above this year’s medal winners following re-tasting and final deliberations by international judging panels.

Marisco won the New Zealand Sparkling Trophy for Diamond Heart Waihopai Cuvée 2020 (95 points) and the New Zealand Chardonnay Trophy for Emma Marris Chardonnay 2024 (95 points). It’s the second year in a row that Emma Marris Chardonnay has won the New Zealand Trophy.

The team also celebrated Gold Medals – and a stunning 95 points each – for Leefield Station Stockman Syrah 2023 and The Ned Noble Sauvignon Blanc 2025.

In addition, 16 Silver and Bronze medals were awarded across the Diamond Heart, Emma Marris, The Ned and Leefield Station ranges.

Distributor: Marisco Vineyards

Ecology & Co launches new
Manuka-inspired RTD range

The latest buzz has arrived in New Zealand’s fast-growing no-and low-alcohol market.

Crafted by award-winning Christchurch distillery Brandhouse, Ecology & Co has undergone a rebrand and extended its range to bring a distinctly New Zealand dimension to the portfolio, layering Manuka Honey natural sweetness over the brand’s signature botanical base while reinforcing its commitment to bold and complex flavour profiles.

The new 250ml Manuka-inspired collection features a trio of vibrant botanical-led alcohol-free serves including Manuka Spritz, Yuzu Spritz and Tini Tonic. Designed for grab-life-and-go convenience and enjoyment, the cans deliver a zero alcohol, zero compromise experience in a ready- to-drink format tailored for modern consumption occasions.

Complementing the RTD launch is Ecology & Co’s blended botanical bottled range, including Manuka, Tini and Yuzu in a versatile 700ml format suited to mixing and shared serves.

1% of every sale of Ecology & Co cans and bottles goes to The World Bee Project to fund bee and biodiversity conservation.

Distributor: Brandhouse

Casella Family Brands joins Hancocks with [yellow tail] and Peter Lehmann

IcIconic Australian wine brands [yellow tail] and Peter Lehmann Wines have joined Hancocks Family Merchants in a new distribution partnership that unites two renowned family-owned businesses.

Hancocks Family Merchants and Australia’s Casella Family Brands have entered the new strategic distribution partnership in New Zealand, effective from 1 July, in which Hancocks will distribute [yellow tail] and Peter Lehmann Wines.

Casella Family Brands (CFB) is Australia’s largest family-owned drinks company and crafts the world’s number one Australian wine brand, [yellow tail], alongside a diverse and growing portfolio of premium wines.

In New Zealand, [yellow tail] continues to be a favourite among consumers, ranking as the country’s #12 Australian wine brand by value ($12–$15 segment).

Shiraz remains the brand’s top-selling varietal here, reflecting strong demand for the rich, approachable style that has become synonymous with [yellow tail].

Distributor: Hancocks