Gilmours have launched their inaugural International Wine Competition – a competition to recognise quality, affordable international wines in New Zealand. 

The competition was developed to educate Foodservice members on international wines and assist in planning their wine lists.  

It also offers wineries an opportunity to take part in the only business-to-business international wine competition in New Zealand. 

Martyn Norris – Gilmours Liquor Category Manager says “It’s great for our members and their customers to have a broader knowledge and understanding of the wine that is available to them outside of New Zealand. Many wineries that produce in the Old World have been making wine for centuries and bring elegant wines at affordable prices”. 

A two-day judging event took place in late March, with the Top 20 winning wines awarded gold medals and now feature as the ‘Gilmours Top 20 Wine Selection’ for 2021. 

Emma Jenkins MW chaired the event with an independent panel of wine judges experienced in International Wine.  This was made up of Sam Kim (Wine Orbit) and Simon Nunns (Consulting Winemaker) and was run by Chief Steward Jo Gear.  

Entries were judged using a double-blind identification system meaning all wines were tasted blind and judged based on their style, region and vintage. 

Chair of Judges Emma Jenkins MW commented:  

“I commend Gilmours for taking the initiative in creating the competition, one that will undoubtedly pay dividends for both Foodservice businesses and consumers. It was encouraging to see the range of varieties and styles entered, and my fellow judges and I were very happy with the corresponding range and quality of the wines that made the final Top 20. From this list, consumers should feel confident in broadening the horizons of their wine world, exploring a diverse array of new tastes and styles.” 

You can read about all the Gilmours Top 20 Gold medal wines online at Gilmours.co.nz or pick up a bottle from any of our seven Cash ‘n Carry stores North Island wide.