Central Otagos organics shift celebrated at national awards

Central Otago’s shift towards organic wine has been recognised at the recent Aotearoa New Zealand Organic Wine Awards, with several of the region’s wineries receiving accolades. Of the 181 medals awarded, 73 went to 11 Central Otago wineries, making for 40% of the national total. Gibbston Valley was a strong performer at the awards, securing six gold medals and the highest total medal count. Gibbston Valley chief winemaker Christopher Keys said the results reflect both vineyard excellence and the strong trajectory of the wider industry. “It is a joy to see the consistent excellence New Zealand’s organic vineyards have reached. “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,” Keys said. Central Otago Winegrowers Association general manager Carolyn Murray welcomed the success of Central Otago producers at the awards.