Goldie Wines invited to Five Nations Wine Challenge

Goldie Wines have been invited to submit one of their premium wines into the Five Nations Wine Challenge by New Zealand’s own Master of Wines Bob Campbell.

The vineyard, owned by The University of Auckland, will be submitting the Goldie Esslin Merlot 2010 which is one of 100 New Zealand wines selected to compete against wines from Australia, South Africa, Argentina and Chile.

The wine received a silver rating, with a score of 91 out of a possible 100, from Mr Campbell who called it a “Pure, bright Merlot from an outstanding Waiheke vintage. An elegant rather than blockbuster style that shows real energy and drive. Plum, floral and a hint of pepper with a seasoning of classy French oak. A great first release under this new label that sets a high standard for future vintages.”

Goldie Wines General Manager Ken Christie is understandably proud of the nomination. “I’m delighted that Goldie Wines is one of Bob’s 100 New Zealand nominations. I know how much thought goes into these selections and with such a vast range of wines to choose from. It’s particularly gratifying given the wine is young and has excellent cellaring potential before reaching its peak.”

The Five Nations Wine Challenge is only open to those personally invited by one of the five judges of the competition. There are sixteen classes and each judge is asked to nominate up to seven wines from at least 14 classes, the greater objective for each country is to win not only the classes but also the ‘Country of Show’. The Goldie Esslin Merlot 2010 will be entered into the Merlot class.

Wines from each country are sent to Sydney with enough time to allow for cool storage before the competition. In competition, wines are identified only by number with judges asked to judge 35 wines in all classes. Scores are then tallied with medals and trophies, including the trophy for Nation of Show, awarded according to aggregate scores.

“It’s great to be getting such praise from the wine community, with Bob’s invitation and recently with Raymond Chan’s five star review of our Cabernet Merlot Franc. It shows us that the reputation and standard set by the Goldwaters has continued on under University ownership.”

The Five Nations Wine Challenge presentation tasting and winner’s dinner takes place one month after judging and will be held in Sydney in October.