| Source: Scope Communications
Central Otago’s shift towards organic wine continues to gain momentum, with several renowned wineries receiving accolades at the recent Aotearoa New Zealand Organic Wine Awards. Of the 181 medals awarded, 73 went to 11 Central Otago wineries – 40% of the national total – highlighting the strength and scale of the region’s organic sector. “It is a joy to see the consistent excellence New Zealand’s organic vineyards have reached,” Keys says. “This is recognition not just for Gibbston Valley, but for New Zealand organic wine as a whole. It’s one part of a bigger picture, but it is an important part.” Central Otago Winegrowers Association general manager Carolyn Murray welcomes the success of Central Otago producers at the awards. “With 30% of our vineyard area now under organic management, Central Otago has become New Zealand’s leading organic wine region,” says Murray. “This achievement reflects the commitment of growers who believe that great wine begins in the vineyard – with healthy soils, balanced ecosystems, and a deep respect for the land.” Momentum behind organic wine in New Zealand continues to build. According to the 2025 New Zealand Winegrowers Sustainability Report, 16 per cent of wineries now hold organic certification, up from 10 per cent in 2024. Keys said this growth is translating into quality and character in the glass. “Being organic brings you closer to the place, revealing the real identity of the wine. When you open a bottle, it has the ability to transport you back to this special part of the world.” Now in its 13th year, the Aotearoa New Zealand Organic Wine Awards celebrate the country’s best certified organic wines. To be eligible, entrants must use certified organic grapes and are assessed through a blind tasting process by an independent, consumer-based judging panel. Gibbston Valley’s top honours were led by its single-vineyard pinot noirs, which featured strongly in the gold medal tally, alongside the 2025 rosé and 2024 chardonnay. Other major award winners included Greystone as ‘Riedel Vineyard of the Year’, Mount Edward Muirkirk pinot noir 2024 as ‘Riedel Wine of the Show’, and Quartz Reef Wines as ‘Sustainable Vineyard of the Year’. Keys says it is encouraging to see the South Island perform so strongly: “Central Otago and North Canterbury have featured prominently in the award results.” Gibbston Valley executive managing director Cristina Griffith says the results underscore the winery’s long-term investment in organic practices. “These awards highlight not only how outstanding the wines are, but also the commitment behind converting our vineyards without losing an ounce of quality.” Gibbston Valley Organic Wine Award Medals
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Awards – Central Otago’s shift to organics shines at national wine awards
