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District shows it's no one trick pony

Thursday 26 May 2011, 9:57AM

By Gisborne Wine

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GISBORNE

 

The quality and diversity of Gisborne grapes come under the microscope this morning as the judging of the 137 wines entered in the inaugural Gisborne Regional Wine Awards got underway.

Spear-headed by chair Jane Skilton, Master of Wine, and ably backed by fellow judges Yvonne Lorkin, Simon Nunns, Larry McKenna, Simon Waghorn, Ralph Kyte-Powell and Ant McKenzie, the judging will run throughout the day, with the black tie Awards Dinner tomorrow night at Wharf Shed 3.

Competition director Prue Younger says it is incredible to see the vast array of varietals coming through.

The varieties range from the expected Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer and Viognier, through to the likes of Gruner Vetliner, Arneis, and a raft of reds including Tempranillo, Mourvedre and Grenache.

It's really interesting to see just where our locally grown grapes end up,” says Ms Younger.

A condition of entry is that wines contain no less than 85% local fruit.

The best of the best will be food matched and toasted at the awards dinner where the supreme wine of show will be announced before more than 200 guests, including wine media, top industry people and the public. Celebrated local chef Darryn Clyne, Champagne Catering will create nothing sort of a lavish four course dinner where MC Mark Leishman will keep everyone on their toes, no doubt.

The top wines of the competition will be promoted to wine publications and journalists over the coming year.

The region's last top competition was the International Chardonnay Challenge which drew to a close in 2010 after 10 very successful years.

“Gisborne is known for its top-notch chardonnay, but through this new event we’re able to highlight the quality of the many other varietals Gisborne produces so well” says Gisborne Wine Marketing Director Simon Gardiner

Once the judges have completed their challenge of finding the best of the best, they too will be treated to the best of the region with an exclusive vineyard and cellar door tour of the district.

“This event is much more than a wine competition – it’s an opportunity to provide visiting judges and wine media with a true and unique expression of our beautiful wine region” says Mr Gardiner.