New World Wine Awards co-chairwoman and chairman of judging Jen Parr and Sam Kim. Photo: Supplied Supermarkets aren’t always trend-setters, but they are exceptionally good at analysing and recognising trends, while tailoring their offerings to consumer demand. Consequently, I’m always interested in exploring what is tasted at each year’s New World Wine Awards, and what that means in terms of its offering. This years 20th annual competition saw a panel of 17 judges tackle more than 1200 wines submitted by over 150 wineries and distributors, to whittle those down to their top 50 wines under $25. This year the "Single Varietal Red" class saw a 30% increase to 180 wines, topping sauvignon blanc for the very first time. Alongside well-known cabernet and merlot are lesser-known grapes such as grenache and tempranillo that may be new to some palates. The rosé category saw an even more startling leap of some 50% above last year’s entries, with more than 170 examples being tasted, 100 of them from New Zealand. Perhaps we’ll see greater focus on these categories this year. With just over 4% of the wines tasted making the cut for the New World Wine Awards Top 50, you’re spoilt for choice. Above are three that I tasted. Delving into the history of Otago winemaking Earnscleugh-based writer Ric Oram has published his fourth book about Central Otago vineyards, people and history, Account of Monte Christo - birthplace of Central Otago winegrowing. It explores the history of Frenchman Jean Desire Feraud, who was one of the early horticulturists in Otago and the pioneer of winemaking in the region along with his myriad business ventures in Clyde. He was clearly a colourful character, at times businessman, market gardener, winemaker, mayor, coroner. Ric weaves the history of Clyde and the Monte Christo property into the story of Feraud’s endeavours, opening a door to the early years of Clyde. Contact Ric at lojo.rico@gmail.com. 2021 Stoneleigh Rapaura Series Single Vineyard Marlborough Chardonnay Price $21.99 (promo) Rating Very Good to Excellent Fragrant nose, attractive oak scents, ripe peach, spice notes. Nice texture and richness here that marries well with the fruit sweetness running through the wine, then a drying, nutty character that neatly counters that sweetness. Firms up a little with aeration, the acidity and structure more evident as it shows its youthful side. A refreshing tangy aspect to the close. www.stoneleigh.com 2021 Church Road McDonald Series Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay Price $19.99 Rating Excellent to Outstanding Refined oak scents, clotted cream, spices, gravel, citrus & tropical fruits. Super energy and drive here, the bright acidity giving this real liveliness, balanced by the fruit weight and depth of flavour. The palate echoes the nose, with lemony citrus characters coming through. A serious wine for the price, already drinking superbly and should repay cellaring. www.church-road.com 2021 Brancott Estate Letter Series O Single Vineyard Marlborough Chardonnay Price $19.99 (promo) Rating Excellent Powerful nose, gunflint, bonfire smoke, oak notes, tropical fruit bubbling up. A stony, minerally quality too. Attractive vibrancy, excellent flavour depth, the powerful fruit framed by spices and oak notes. A lot to enjoy here with a long finish. A wisp of sour cream on the close adds tangy refreshment. Already in a very nice place to enjoy now. www.brancottestate.com
