Villa Maria News

Quality in every sip

Published 19 June 2024

Driven by a passion for creating wines that deliver exceptional taste and unforgettable experiences, we remain focused on quality in every sip.

Our passion for excellence infuses every aspect of our winemaking journey.

Selecting the finest grapes across New Zealand’s diverse wine regions, we uphold a commitment to delivering unparalleled quality. We nurture our vineyards with meticulous care and precision, ensuring that every wine reflects our dedication to creating memorable experiences.

 

Each range, whether it’s our fruit-driven Private Bin or the exceptional Icon collection, embodies our dedication to excellence and our passion for winemaking, earning global accolades and recognition worldwide.

 

 

Critic Awards

Wine critics are the connoisseurs who illuminate the intricate tapestry of the wine world with their discerning palates for fine vintages. Through their meticulous assessments, they capture the essence of each bottle, describing the symphony of aromas, the dance of flavours, and the harmony of textures. Their reviews and ratings are not merely guides for purchase but celebrations of winemakers. By highlighting the nuances and subtleties that make each wine unique, critics enrich the cultural narrative of wine, ensuring that the finest creations are honoured and enjoyed. In this way, wine critics serve as the custodians of quality, their words weaving a spell that enhances our collective vinous experience.

 

Typically, wines scored over 90 or 4 stars are considered exceptional, demonstrating outstanding complexity, balance, and depth.

 

James Suckling

90 points

Our Private Bin Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2023 was awarded 90 points by James Suckling.

 

“Lots of passion fruit, guava and grapefruit on the nose. Bright, tropical and balanced, with medium body and a juicy, fruity finish.”

Cam Douglas

94 points

Our Reserve Pinot Noir 2021 was awarded 94 points by Cam Douglas.

 

“A lovely bouquet filled with scents of spice and ripe red berry fruits. Layers of wood spice with ripe cherry and blackcurrant scents. Mineral and wood scents combine to add complexity and intrigue. Taut and dry as the wine touches the palate, firm tannins and plenty of acidity to challenge the core fruit flavours. There’s vigor and charm, youthful energy and fruit concentration.”

Sam Kim

94 points

Our Cellar Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2023 was awarded 94 points by Sam Kim/Wine Orbit.

 

“This is instantly appealing on the nose with kiwifruit, grapefruit, apricot and lime zest aromas. The palate delivers terrific fruit power and persistency, combined with juicy acidity, finishing wonderfully long and delicious.”

Wine Show Awards

Wine shows are grand events that celebrate the artistry and craftsmanship of winemaking, offering a splendid stage for vintners to present their finest creations. These gatherings bring together connoisseurs, industry experts, and enthusiasts, creating a vibrant milieu where the quality and diversity of wines can be showcased. Through competitions, tastings, and exhibitions, wine shows provide an unparalleled opportunity for winemakers to gain recognition and prestige. Awards and accolades bestowed at these events serve as benchmarks of excellence, guiding consumers and boosting the profiles of the winning wines.

 

 

Global Fine Wine Challenge

Double Gold

Our Reserve Wairau Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2022 won Double Gold at the Global Fine Wine Challenge 2023.

 

Double Gold medals are awarded to wines that receive a gold medal from every single judge on the panel and are a spectacular feat.

International Wine & Spirit Challenge

91 points

Our Single Vineyard Taylors Pass Chardonnay 2022 won 91 points at the International Wine & Spirit Challenge 2024.

Decanter World Wine Awards

91 points

Our Single Vineyard Taylors Pass Pinot Noir 2022 won 91 points at the International Wine & Spirit Challenge 2024.

 

“Intense and powerful dark berries, red cherries and barrel spices. Silky, polished tannins and acidity underpin bright red fruit.”