Nelson to host premier event

Nelson will host this year’s Air New Zealand Wine Awards dinner.

Vines have been cultivated in the Nelson region since the mid-1800s but it wasn’t until the 1970s that growers and winemakers began to shape the province as a unique producer of superb wines.

Among the first producers were names such as Seifried and Neudorf and Nelson quickly became known for its chardonnay and pinot noir - but the region also has an excellent reputation for aromatics such as riesling, pinot gris and gewürztraminer, along with its highly distinctive take on sauvignon blanc.

The awards dinner will also see the announcement of the Air New Zealand Champion Wine of the Show Trophy. Up to 18 other trophies are also awarded, including the O-I New Zealand Reserve Wine of the Show trophy, Label and Litho Champion Sauvignon Blanc trophy, and JF Hillebrand Champion Pinot Noir trophy.

Global marketing director for New Zealand Winegrowers, Chris Yorke, says the Air New Zealand Wine Awards dinner is a big night for New Zealand’s wine industry.

“Nelson has a great reputation for producing world-class wines, which makes it a fitting location for this year’s awards dinner.

“Winning an Air New Zealand Wine Awards trophy is a well-recognised and sought-after accolade, and we expect strong competition again in 2015.”

Air New Zealand regional affairs manager for government and Industry affairs, Ian Collier, says his company has worked closely with New Zealand Winegrowers, Nelson Tasman Tourism and Nelson Airport to secure the event for the region.

“Each year the awards attract close to 600 winemakers, international media and other guests, so we expect this year’s event will benefit Nelson significantly from a tourism perspective.”

The Air New Zealand Wine Awards celebrate excellence in New Zealand winemaking and the contest is owned and organised by New Zealand Winegrowers, the national body representing the country's 1600 grape growers and winemakers. Entries for the 2015 competition open to New Zealand wineries on August 10.

Go to: www.airnzwineawards.co.nz