Medals announced in 2026 National Wine Awards

Judging in this year’s National Wine Awards has been completed with medal results now out and showing a lift in the success rate.

Organisers says the share of gold medals is up over last year and the overall medal success rate rose 8% to almost 66%, meaning nearly two of every three entries into the competition have received a medal.

“This incredible success rate shows the increasing quality in New Zealand wine and is testament to the talent and hard work of our winemaking and viticulture teams,” says Chair of Judges, Jane Cooper.

Medal results are available on the National Wine Awards website here. Trophy winners will be announced in Auckland on 8 November. 

Established in 2022, the National Wine Awards is New Zealand’s only national wine competition. Owned by the Auckland Agricultural & Pastoral Association and run by the team behind the former Royal Easter Show Wine Awards, the competition was created to identify, recognise and celebrate excellence in New Zealand wine.

Organisers say the 2026 vintage was well-represented, particularly in Sauvignon Blanc, with 11 gold medals awarded to current vintage wines in this class.

Pinot Noir also saw 11 gold medal-winning wines, while six golds were awarded to Sparkling Wines,  representing almost 20% of entries in this class.

W: Full medal results online at nationalwineawards.