Saint Clair Family Estate has shared its proud accomplishments at the prestigious International Wine Challenge (IWC).
The New Zealand vineyard had six wines receive standout scores and impressed the IWC judging jury.
Now in its 40th year, the IWC is regarded as the world’s most rigorous, impartial, and influential wine competition. Wines are judged through a blind tasting process by a global panel of experts, making this recognition meaningful to the team at Saint Clair and its customers.
The Vineyard’s Omaka Reserve Chardonnay 2024 scored 94 points, and was described as fragrant and upfront lemon, pear and blossom, with youthful appeal that was juicy and exciting.
Its 2023 Omaka Reserve Chardonnay scored 93 points, and was highlighted for its notes that reflected baked apple and pear, pie crust, true to style with a creamy palate with lemon curd finish.
Sant Clair’s Barrique Sauvignon Blanc 2024 scored 93 points, and highlighted stonefruit notes, as well as apple blossom and honeysuckle with good length and was a breath of fresh air.
Scoring 92 points, the Saint Clair Oaked Sauvignon Blanc 2024 was praised for its hints of guava with passion fruit notes, and aromas of cut grass. It was also described as a classic juicy wine with savoury and a firm citrus finish.
The Pioneer Block 14 Doctor’s Creek Pinot Noir 2023 was highlighted for its similarity of plums, pastry and cranberries, cinnamon and dark chocolate, with nutty undertones and exuberant fruit with a firm backbone. The wine scored 92 points.
The Saint Clair Wairau Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2024 was described as very delicate in style with character of green apple, sage and freshly mown grass, poised and balanced with a zesty finish.
These results showcased the dedication and skill of Saint Clair’s winemaking team and was a reflection of the unique terroir of Marlborough. Saint Clair was especially delighted to see both vintages of the Saint Clair Omaka Reserve Chardonnay celebrated with exceptional scores, reinforcing the consistency and quality of this handcrafted wine.
The IWC blind tasting process ensured that only the best wines rise to the top, and to have six of its wines recognised at this level was true praise.
“At Saint Clair Family Estate, our mission is to create world-class wines that exceed expectations. This recognition reflects the dedication across our entire team, from vineyard to bottle. Sincere thanks to the IWC judging panel and congratulations to all other medal winners, who are working hard to craft outstanding wines.”
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