We are delighted to share that Marisco Vineyards has been awarded New Zealand Winery of the Year and White Wine Producer of the Year at the 2026 Sommeliers Choice Awards in Chicago.
These prestigious international awards are judged exclusively by leading sommeliers, beverage directors and hospitality buyers, recognising wines that deliver exceptional quality and outstanding appeal in restaurants and hospitality venues around the world.
Leading our results was the outstanding Leefield Station Chardonnay 2024, which was awarded a coveted Double Gold Medal. Judges praised the wine for its complex reductive profile, layered beeswax and mineral characters, and vibrant green apple acidity.
The recognition is particularly rewarding as it highlights the strength of our Chardonnay programme, with both Leefield Station and The Ned receiving top accolades. And furthermore backs the strength of our winemaking across multiple varietals.
Alongside the Double Gold, we were proud to receive a further seven Gold Medals across our Leefield Station and The Ned portfolios.
Gold Medal Winners
Leefield Station
- Sauvignon Blanc 2025 – 90 Points
- Pinot Gris 2025 – 90 Points
- Pinot Noir 2024 – 91 Points
The Ned
- Chardonnay 2024 – 93 Points
- Sauvignon Blanc 2024 – 92 Points
- Pinot Gris 2025 – 92 Points
- Pinot Noir 2023 – Gold Medal
The Ned Chardonnay 2024 was among the highest-scoring wines in our portfolio, earning 93 points. Judges described the wine as mineral-driven, with notes of white flowers, honeysuckle and orange cream balanced by ripe yellow apple and pear on a fresh, refined palate.
GM of Sales & Marketing Siobhan Wilson shares of the announcement:
"To be recognised by some of the world's leading sommeliers and hospitality professionals is a tremendous honour and a testament to the dedication of our vineyard and winery teams. Every wine begins with a commitment to quality in the vineyard, thoughtful winemaking, and a desire to capture the character of Marlborough in every bottle."
With Proprietor & Chief Winemaker Brent Marris adding:
"These awards are a reflection of everything we believe in: exceptional vineyards, dedicated people, and the remarkable region we are fortunate to call home."
They reinforce our commitment to crafting wines that capture the essence of Marlborough and sharing them with wine lovers around the globe.
Because for us, it has always been — and always will be — a lifelong love affair with Marlborough.
