Central Otago red wins gold

The 2008 Mondillo Central Otago Pinot Noir produced by Bendigo-based Mondillo Vineyards has been awarded a gold medal at New Zealand’s oldest, most respected wine competition, the Royal Easter Show Wine Awards.

The Pinot Noir, the only Pinot to be served at a royal function during Prince William’s recent visit, received the gold medal yesterday (2 March) following the first day of judging in Auckland.

Five panels judged 1517 wines of which only 102 were awarded gold medals.

Show Director Terry Dunleavy said an increase in the number of top medal awards on the first day of judging “was an indication of the extent to which New Zealand winemakers had raised the bar on quality”.

Chair of judges Kate Radburnd praised winemakers for continued honing of techniques and improving quality by lower yields in vineyards.  “The gold medal wines are top class by the highest international standards,” she said.

Mondillo wines have received numerous medals, recommendations and accolades since Domenic and Ally Mondillo established their 12-hectare vineyard in Bendigo in 2001.

Domenic said he was thrilled to see the 2008 Pinot Noir vintage fulfil the promise they had identified back when the grapes were still on the vines.

“The 2008 vintage was a reflection of one the best growing seasons Central Otago has ever seen.

“Every Pinot Noir we have grown so far has received awards and recognition which backs up our philosophy about producing only the highest quality,” he said.

The 2008 Mondillo Central Otago Pinot Noir is described as a graceful, silky, single-vineyard wine which is dark in colour, elegant and balanced.  It is dense and rich with beautifully scented aromas of dark-cherry and plum up front, followed by vanilla and spice.  The palate is bold and velvety with a creamy textured finish.

Domenic Mondillo is an accredited member and one of Central Otago’s founding members of SWNZ – Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand, and ensures every step is taken to employ environmentally responsible processes in the vineyard and winery.

“We believe sustainable practice is a key strategic goal for the wine business and our practices are all guided by those principles,” says Ally Mondillo.

For more information, visit: mondillo.com