New Zealand TOP wineries named | 2024

While Marlborough may boast a significant portion of New Zealand’s top wineries, it’s a business in Central Otago that’s seized the spotlight.

Named New Zealand’s Winery of the Year 2024 by The Real Review, Felton Road, often hailed as the winery that put the Central Otago town of Bannockburn on the map, expresses deep gratitude for the recognition.

Blair Walter, the winemaker at Felton Road, acknowledges the honor, attributing it to the consistent and exceptional quality of wines nurtured across their four vineyard sites in Bannockburn.

“We’re fortunate to cultivate our vineyards organically and biodynamically for over two decades, a practice that infuses our wines with additional harmony and nuance,” Walter remarks.

The accolade stems from an exhaustive tasting regimen encompassing over 3500 wines, aiming to spotlight wineries with a steadfast commitment to producing superb wines. The Real Review’s Wine Classification, evaluating wines through blind tastings over a minimum span of ten years, has cemented Felton Road’s position within New Zealand’s top echelon, consistently ranking no lower than sixth.

The top five slots are occupied by Destiny Bay from Waiheke Island, Church Road in Hawke’s Bay, Ata Rangi in Martinborough, and Craggy Range in Hawke’s Bay, besides Felton Road.

Esteemed New Zealand master of wine Stephan Wong commends the growing diversity among winemakers in this year’s rankings, reflecting an exciting period for New Zealand’s wine industry. He notes the increasing prominence of organic producers and the burgeoning influence of smaller regions like the Wairarapa, North Canterbury, and Waiheke Island alongside established giants like Marlborough and Hawke’s Bay.

His sentiment finds resonance with fellow master of wine Bob Campbell, who hails the Top Wineries of New Zealand 2024 as a definitive compilation, setting new standards of excellence in the realm of fine wines.

Of note, among the top 60 wines, a remarkable 56.7% have some or all of their vineyards certified organic. The list of 157 wineries includes 48 from Marlborough, with notable mentions such as Fromm Winery, Hans Herzog Estate, Dog Point Vineyard, Blank Canvas, and Giesen Wine Estate. Otago boasts 36 wineries on the list, featuring Terra Sancta, Valli, and Rippon. Auckland contributes 13 wineries, primarily from Waiheke Island.

The full list could be found at therealreview.com.