The Romeo Bragato Wine Awards in Marlborough were a special night for Villa Maria Wines, as their Auckland Chardonnay and Hawke’s Bay Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot took out two of the most highly coveted trophies.
Brett Donaldson’s Villa Maria Single Vineyard Ihumatao Chardonnay 2014 won the Bragato Champion Wine of the Show Trophy, as well as the Champion Single Vineyard category, and the Bill Irwin trophy for Champion Chardonnay.
“This chardonnay shows wonderful expression and captures the essence of the Ihumatao vineyard.” Ben Glover, chairman of the judges, concluded.
Villa Maria’s Hawke’s Bay Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2014 also won big, winning the Richard Smart Trophy for Champion Domaine Wine. This was made with grapes from the Vidal vineyard, and grown by Phil Holden.
“High quality, perfectly ripened fruit was allowed to shine through in this expertly crafted wine.” Glover commented.
The Bragato Wine Awards are held annually as part of the New Zealand Winegrowers Romeo Bragato National Conference, to recognise growers for their individual excellence.
