We are proud to share that two of our flagship wines, Whitehaven Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2024 and Whitehaven Pinot Noir 2023 have been recognised at the prestigious Global Fine Wine Challenge 2025. An exclusive, invitation-only competition, the Global Fine Wine Challenge celebrates excellence in winemaking and showcases the craftsmanship of leading producers from around the world. We were honoured to have Whitehaven selected to represent New Zealand at this year’s event, placing our wines alongside the finest from other top wine-producing nations.

Each wine was judged by a panel of four respected wine industry experts. The results speak to the quality and distinctive character of our Marlborough vineyards and winemaking approach.

Whitehaven Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2024

Awarded: Runner-Up Double Gold
The Sauvignon Blanc impressed all four judges, receiving high scores and glowing reviews:

  • Score: 94 "Clean and expressive nose. Bright and balanced, sweet core of fruit (mixed citrus and tropical) that's ripe and inviting. Delicious."
  • Score: 95 "Laser focussed acidity pulls the palate into line. Green apple, pear, passionfruit. Mouthwatering, crisp and lithe. Good length."
  • Score: 94 "Intense passionfruit, guava aromas. Fresh, crisp and clean. Excellent intensity, zesty lemony notes driving the palate. Finishes long."
  • Score: 95 "Lantana, lemon aromas. Very good fruit intensity, the palate sings with deep, ripe Sauvignon fruit flavour. Excellent. Long follow through."

Whitehaven Marlborough Pinot Noir 2023

Awarded: Judges’ Selection
Our Pinot Noir was acknowledged in the “Judges’ Selection” category, reflecting the wine’s character and potential:

  • "Dark cherry on the bouquet opens to reveal a fleshy supple palate with black cherry and ripe tannins. Finishes fresh."
  • "A stony, earthy nose with restrained fruit. Bright, ripe fruit on the palate with juicy acidity and polished structure. Generous and refreshing style. Mouthwatering finish."

A Proud Moment for Whitehaven

Being invited to compete at the Global Fine Wine Challenge is recognition in itself. To have our wines perform so strongly against the best in the world is a testament to the care and dedication of our vineyard and winemaking teams.

We’re incredibly proud to continue representing New Zealand on the global stage - delivering wines that express both place and precision.