He said while the riesling class was not as strong as expected in the event, there were a few very good examples.
''It was good to see some emerging varieties as well as styles and blends that show great promise,'' Mr Harre said.
He was joined on the judging panel by his son, Paul Harre, and Pettar Evans, from Sherwood Estate Wines.
A team comprising the Amberley A&P Show president Helen Douglas-Withers, Cr Geoff Shier and North Canterbury advertising sales consultant Kerryn Clark selected the People's Choice Award.
The eight winning wines will be unveiled and available to sample at the Amberley show.
They will also be available at Vino Fino on November 23, and at Pukeko Junction, Leithfield, on November 22 and 23.
The challenge has its roots in the show.
It was introduced so the local wine-making community was included in the celebration of all things rural.
Organiser Steve Barkle says the challenge encompasses the North Canterbury Wine Region which stretches from Burnham to Akaroa. There were 20 red wines entered, one fortified wine, 9 rose and 44 whites.
He says the challenge is in its 10th year.
It is important to the local wine industry through showcasing to the public and hospitality industry the finest local offerings.
Mr Barkle says the support and sponsorship from W-rapt Labels is integral to the success of the challenge.
''W-rapt will be supplying a suite of labels for all our winners - 6000 bottle labels,'' he says.
The wines will be housed in a marquee, next to the hoof-to-hotplate tent.
The wine challenge flags will be flying so people can find their way to the winning wines.
