Greystone Vineyard’s exceptional 2021 Organic Chardonnay has achieved remarkable recognition on the global stage, solidifying its place as a leader in the world of wines. At the 2023 Aotearoa Organic Wine Awards, the Organic Chardonnay clinched the title of Best Organic Wine in the country, while also securing the prestigious Riedel Wine of the Show award and the esteemed Champion Chardonnay accolade.
The Chardonnay from North Canterbury has been a focus of admiration, with winemaker Dom Maxwell attributing its success to a trifecta at the International Wine Challenge (IWC) 2023. The wine garnered accolades at the New Zealand Wine Trophy, New Zealand Chardonnay Trophy, and Canterbury Chardonnay Trophy categories. Dom Maxwell emphasized that the acknowledgment from these prestigious platforms reaffirms the remarkable quality of Chardonnay from Greystone Vineyard.
The IWC 2023 saw Greystone adding another accomplishment to their list by claiming the IWC Organic Trophy, a testament to their commitment to organic winemaking practices.
In a broader context, New Zealand’s prowess in winemaking was showcased at the IWC with a total of 38 medals, positioning the country among the top 12 wine-producing nations. Impressively, 13 of those medals were awarded to Chardonnay wines. Stephen McGowan, Greystone’s General Manager of Sales and Marketing, highlighted that while New Zealand is renowned for its exceptional Sauvignon Blanc, its Chardonnay often remains underestimated. Greystone’s triumph underscores the diversity of New Zealand’s winemaking capabilities, demonstrating excellence across various grape varieties and wine styles.
Greystone’s continued success in the wine industry has solidified its position as a trendsetter. Winemaker Dom Maxwell and Greystone Viticulturist Mike Saunders are set to share their expertise at the upcoming Aotearoa New Zealand Chardonnay Symposium, part of the New Zealand Society for Viticulture and Oenology (NZSVO) Technical Workshop, to be held in Hawke’s Bay this October. This event serves as a platform for sharing insights, fostering innovation, and celebrating the achievements of the New Zealand wine industry.
