For the first time in the 20-year history of the New World Wine Awards, the Single Variety Red Wine class has eclipsed the iconic Sauvignon Blanc class to become the largest in the competition.

 Judging of the Awards was held in Marlborough in mid-August over three days, with an independent panel of 17 experts assessing more than 1,200 wine entries.

More than 150 wineries and wine distributors from around New Zealand and the world have entered the 20th annual competition, which focuses on finding great wines under RRP $25.

Co-chair of judges, Sam Kim, says that entries to the Single Variety Red Wine category were up 30% in the 2022 competition, with more than 180 wines submitted.

“This class is home to local favourites like Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, two varieties that love to grow in the sunny Hawke’s Bay and surrounds. However, we’ve also seen an increase in ‘New to New Zealand’ varieties like Grenache, Malbec, Petit Syrah and Tempranillo,” says Kim.  

Organisers say that Rosé has also had a record-breaking year, with more than 170 entries, up 50% on the 2021 competition.

Results will be announced in October and the Top 50 winning wines will then be available to New World shoppers nationwide.