The results are in for the New World Wine Awards 2025, and the Top 50 Wines Under $30 have been revealed, offering Kiwis the chance to enjoy world-class wines without the world-class price tag.
This year’s awards saw over 1,000 wines from Aotearoa and around the globe go head-to-head in a rigorous blind tasting. Judged by a panel of independent wine experts, the wines were assessed on aroma, flavour, balance, and value – no labels, no price cues, just quality.
The result? A curated list of 50 outstanding wines, all $30 or less, available exclusively at New World stores nationwide.
What makes these awards so special?
Every wine was scored using the internationally respected 100-point system, with only the best making the final cut. This year’s Top 50 includes gold medal winners that rival top drops from global competitions, proving that great wine doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
Led by Chair Jen Parr and Deputy Chair Murry Cook, the 2025 judging panel brought decades of experience and a fresh perspective to the table.
“This year’s Top 50 is a celebration of diversity, discovery, and deliciousness,” says Jen Parr. “From bold reds and elegant whites to vibrant rosés and festive bubbles, there’s something here for every taste and every occasion.”
Top of the Drops – 2025 Champions
Champion white wine:
The Hunting Lodge Seasonal Albariño Marlborough 2025
A vibrant, textural white with bright stonefruit and fresh lime – Albariño is fast becoming a Kiwi favourite.
Champion Sparkling Wine:
Lindauer Special Reserve Brut NV
A reimagined classic with a creamy texture and perfumed nose – perfect for celebrations or Sunday brunch.
Champion Red Wine:
Church Road McDonald Series Syrah 2021
A bold, supple Syrah from Hawke’s Bay, packed with dark berry fruit and spice.
More must-try highlights
Most fun in a bottle:
Brown Brothers Sparkling Moscato 2024 – Bursting with citrus, grape, and sherbet aromas. A sweet, fizzy delight.
Rosé with a twist:
OTU Estate Rosé 2025 – Bright berry flavours and a candy apple finish make this a modern pink standout.
Sauvignon Blanc standout:
Waimea Sauvignon Blanc 2024 – Fresh as a sea breeze with a spicy jalapeño kick.
Global gems:
Grande Cuvée 1531 Rosé Crémant de Limoux NV (France) and Taylors Estate Tempranillo 2024 (Australia) prove that international wines can shine just as brightly – offering exceptional value and character.
Spotlight: Mountford Estate Blanc Pet Nat NV
One of the most exciting wines in this year’s lineup is the Mountford Estate Blanc Pet Nat NV – a fun, fizzy, and slightly funky sparkling wine that’s perfect for parties and casual celebrations.
Pet Nat (Pétillant Naturel) is made using an ancient method where wine is bottled before fermentation finishes, creating a natural sparkle without added sugars or yeasts. The result? A lightly bubbly, unfiltered wine with vibrant citrus, floral notes, and a touch of wild yeast character.
“This wine is a total vibe,” said one judge. “It’s fresh, energetic, and a little bit wild, perfect for those who love to explore something different.”
Crafted in North Canterbury, this wine reflects Mountford Estate’s organic, minimal intervention philosophy – a raw, expressive taste of the vineyard in every glass.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply looking for a great bottle to share with friends, the New World Wine Awards 2025 offers a trusted guide to wines that punch well above their price point.
Explore the full Top 50 in-store or online at newworld.co.nz/wineawards
