Giesen Group Named New Zealand Winery of the Year at Melbourne International Wine Competition
Giesen Group has once again been named New Zealand Winery of the Year at the Melbourne International Wine Competition, adding to an impressive haul of three Double Gold medals, nine Gold medals, and Riesling of the Year honours.
This marks the third time Giesen Group has received this prestigious title, having previously won in 2018 and 2021. The group was also recognised with German Riesling of the Year for Giesen Mosel Riesling (2019).
Judged by a panel of leading trade buyers, the Melbourne International Wine Competition is designed to reflect what wine consumers truly enjoy. Now in its 12th year, the judging panel is made up entirely of wine buyers, sommeliers, beverage directors, distributors, and importers. More than 1,000 wines from eight countries, across over 50 categories, were assessed to identify wines that deliver exceptional quality and value.
Being awarded New Zealand Winery of the Year 2024 reinforces what Australian wine lovers already know — Giesen wines consistently punch above their weight for quality and value.
Giesen Director of Innovation, Duncan Shouler, said:
“These accolades speak to the quality of the wines across our range — from no-alcohol and low-alcohol through to full-strength wines. The team continues to work hard to create wines for all occasions.”
Giesen Group is also the proud owner of Ara Wines, with Ara’s quality recognised through a Double Gold award for Ara Single Estate Sauvignon Blanc (2023), alongside additional gold medal wins.
Key Results
Major Awards
-
Winner – New Zealand Winery of the Year
-
German Riesling of the Year – Giesen Mosel Riesling (2019)
Double Gold – Phenomenal Product (Unanimous Decision)
-
Ara Single Estate Sauvignon Blanc (2023) – Double Gold, 96 points
-
Giesen Mosel Riesling (2019) – Double Gold, 96 points
-
Giesen Estate Riesling (2023) – Double Gold, 96 points
Gold Medals – Buyers “Love” It
-
Giesen Estate Sauvignon Blanc (2023) – Gold, 94 points
-
Ara Single Estate Pinot Noir (2022) – Gold, 95 points
-
Ara Single Estate Rosé (2023) – Gold, 94 points
-
Giesen 0% Riesling (NV) – Gold, 95 points
-
Giesen 0% Sparkling Brut (NV) – Gold, 95 points
-
Giesen Pure Light Sauvignon Blanc (2023) – Gold, 94 points
-
Giesen Uncharted Chardonnay (2023) – Gold, 95 points
-
Giesen Uncharted Pinot Noir (2022) – Gold, 95 points
-
Giesen Uncharted Sauvignon Blanc (2023) – Gold, 95 points
Silver Medals – Buyers “Like” It
-
Ara Single Estate Pinot Gris (2023) – Silver, 93 points
-
Giesen 0% Merlot (NV) – Silver, 93 points
-
Giesen 0% Pinot Gris (NV) – Silver, 92 points
-
Giesen 0% Rosé (NV) – Silver, 93 points
-
Giesen 0% Sauvignon Blanc (NV) – Silver, 93 points
-
Clayvin Pinot Noir (2019) – Silver, 92 points
-
Single Vineyard Clayvin Chardonnay (2018) – Silver, 93 points
Together, these accolades recognise the quality, consistency, and value across the Giesen Group portfolio. Congratulations to our winemaking and viticulture teams for their continued pursuit of excellence. Many of these award-winning wines are available at retailers across Australia and New Zealand.
Celebrating Our Award-Winning Wines
Giesen Mosel Riesling
A refined expression of Germany’s Mosel Valley, Giesen Mosel Riesling shows delicate aromas of white blossom, ripe peach, and fresh lime, with subtle mineral notes. The palate is vibrant and balanced, with citrus, green apple, and a hint of honeyed sweetness, finishing crisp and refreshing.
Germany Riesling of the Year
96 Points | Double Gold Medal
Giesen Estate Riesling
Bright and refreshing, Giesen Estate Riesling captures the elegance of Marlborough’s cool climate. Aromas of citrus, green apple, and light florals lead to a lively palate of lime, grapefruit, and gentle sweetness, balanced by vibrant acidity and a clean finish.
96 Points | Double Gold Medal
Ara Single Estate Sauvignon Blanc (2023)
A classic Wairau Valley Sauvignon Blanc with vibrant tropical fruit and grapefruit flavours. Aromatic notes of blackcurrant, nectarine, and passionfruit are complemented by subtle flinty characters, leading to a crisp, dry finish.
96 Points | Double Gold Medal
