As the festive and celebratory end-of-year season nears, it’s a perfect time to consider stocking up your wine supplies – and this week’s announcement of the Top 50 Wines under $30 from the annual New World Wines Award offers the opportunity to try some exciting world-class wines without the world-class price tag.
The awards saw more than 1000 wines from around New Zealand and the globe go head-to-head in a vigorous blind tasting. Judged by an elite panel of independent wine experts, the wines were assessed on aroma, flavour, balance, and value – no labels, no price cues, just quality. The result? A curated list of 50 outstanding wines, all $30 or less, available exclusively at New World stores nationwide.
“From bold reds and elegant whites to vibrant rosés and festive bubbles, there’s something here for every taste and every occasion,” says Chair Jen Parr.
For those looking for some exemplary recommendations, whether a bottle to share over a meal or a collection of wines for an event, here’s a quick overview of some of the ‘best of’ and the full list of Top 50 winners can be found online at New World Wine Awards 2025 | New World
Champion white wine: The Hunting Lodge Seasonal Albariño Marlborough 2025: A vibrant, textural white with bright stonefruit and fresh lime – Albariño is fast becoming a Kiwi favourite.
Champion Sparkling Wine: Lindauer Special Reserve Brut NV: A reimagined classic with a creamy texture and perfumed nose – perfect for celebrations or Sunday brunch.
Champion Red Wine: Church Road McDonald Series Syrah 2021: A bold, supple Syrah from Hawke’s Bay, packed with dark berry fruit and spice.
More must-try highlights
Most Fun in a Bottle: Brown Brothers Sparkling Moscato 2024: Bursting with citrus, grape, and sherbet aromas. A sweet, fizzy delight.
Rosé with a Twist: OTU Estate Rosé 2025: Bright berry flavours and a candy apple finish make this a modern pink standout.
Sauvignon Blanc Standout: Waimea Sauvignon Blanc 2024: Fresh as a sea breeze with a spicy jalapeño kick.
Global Gems: Grande Cuvée 1531 Rosé Crémant de Limoux NV (France) and Taylors Estate Tempranillo 2024 (Australia) prove that international wines can shine just as brightly – offering exceptional value and character.
Spotlight: Mountford Estate Blanc Pet Nat NV: One of the most exciting wines in this year’s lineup is the Mountford Estate Blanc Pet Nat NV – a fun, fizzy, and slightly funky sparkling wine that’s perfect for parties and casual celebrations.
Pet Nat (Pétillant Naturel) is made using an ancient method where wine is bottled before fermentation finishes, creating a natural sparkle without added sugars or yeasts. The result? A lightly bubbly, unfiltered wine with vibrant citrus, floral notes, and a touch of wild yeast character.
“This wine is a total vibe,” said one judge. “It’s fresh, energetic, and a little bit wild, perfect for those who love to explore something different.”
Crafted in North Canterbury, this wine reflects Mountford Estate’s organic, minimal intervention philosophy – a raw, expressive taste of the vineyard in every glass.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply looking for a great bottle to share with friends, the New World Wine Awards 2025 offers a trusted guide to wines that punch well above their price point.
