Sixty-three gold, 160 silver and 446 bronze medals were awarded at the second annual Spiegelau International Wine Competition held in Marlborough last week. Stand out classes included Methode Traditionnelle and Riesling with 12% of entries receiving gold medals.

Of the seven sparkling wine gold medals, six were from New Zealand including one from Central Otago. The Sauvignon Blanc gold medals were dominated by the 2012 vintage reinforcing comments as to the quality of the fruit.

A number of wine producers were awarded multiple gold medals for their wines. They included New Zealand winemakers Villa Maria, Matua and smaller producer, Mount Riley.

Chief Judge, Mike DeGaris of Sydney said, "It was a pleasure to judge such a diverse range of wines, many of outstanding quality." He continues, "There were a number of highlights, but Methode Traditionelle, Riesling, Chardonnay and European reds, showed very well, as did the 2012 vintage Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc."

Competition Director, Belinda Jackson commented, "The range of medal-winning wines will provide an excellent guide for wine lovers as each medal sticker indicates to the purchaser that the wine has been through a rigorous, independent evaluation."

Gold medals will be presented and trophies announced at a special awards dinner on 5 October at The Northern Club, Auckland.