It’s been a tough job, trying all the excellent wines from the 2015 Air New Zealand Wine Awards, but somebody had to do it. Here are our favourites.

ARONUI NELSON CHARDONNAY 2014 – PURE SILVER MEDAL

A beautiful winner in the silver category, expect intense aromas of stone fruit and smoky oak, continuing on to the palate with creamy butterscotch and hazelnut flavours. A well-balanced and lingering finish. Winner of a pure silver medal.

DEUTZ MARLBOROUGH CUVÉE ROSÉ 2010 - PURE SILVER MEDAL

The House of Deutz is a respected French winemaker, who signed a landmark agreement with Montana in 1988 to celebrate 150 years of winemaking. For 10 years, Deutz visited Montana to train their viticulturists in the art  of champagne making. The result is this premium méthode traditionnelle and a shelf full of trophies. This wine offers an alternative to the usual sparklers, with the addition of rich berry flavours falling into complex biscuit and brioche end notes. Great with any dessert.

SPY VALLEY MARLBOROUGH PINOT GRIS

Grown in small batches, the grapes are allowed to reach maximum ripeness before being harvested, which leads to intense floral and pear flavours. Exceptionally aromatic with a minerally palate, this elegant wine pairs perfectly with creamy pasta.

ARA SINGLE VINEYARD PINOT NOIR - PURE SILVER MEDAL  

A classical expression of Marlborough with dark raspberry and boysenberry flavours. A soft, savoury and well-rounded wine

CHURCH ROAD MCDONALD CABERNET SAUVIGNON

This red boasts a rich and deep colour with an almost purple hue. Great to enjoy with steak from the barbecue, expect intense blackcurrant flavours with vanilla and spice aromas, finishing on a silky note.