Author: Daniela de Bruyn

Mudbrick Vineyard on Waiheke Island, renowned for its commitment to excellence and innovation, proudly announces its monumental win at the National Wine Awards of Aotearoa. The vineyard has been awarded the prestigious Trophy for the Cabernet Sauvignon and Blends category for its flagship wine Velvet 2022, solidifying its position as a leading producer of exceptional wines in New Zealand.

The esteemed event, hosted at the Hilton, gathered prominent industry figures and wine connoisseurs from across the nation. Mudbrick Vineyard’s outstanding Velvet 2022 captivated the judges with its distinct character, complexity, and exquisite craftsmanship, earning the well-deserved recognition at this esteemed platform.

The Mudbrick Velvet 2022 is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot which was had harvested, naturally fermented and aged in French oak barriques. Velvet is only made in vintages where quality is exceptional.

Expressing his elation, Mudbrick’s Winemaker, Patrick Newton, remarked, “This accolade is a testament to our team’s unwavering dedication to producing wines of exceptional quality. The 2022 Velvet we have crafted is a reflection of our commitment to precision in both the vineyard and winery, and we are thrilled to see our efforts recognised at such a prestigious event.”

Mudbrick’s Viticulturist, Nick Otto, added, “Our holistic approach to vineyard management has played a pivotal role in nurturing grapes of the highest calibre. This win serves as a testament to the meticulous care and sustainable practices we uphold throughout our vineyards, ensuring the finest quality grapes are used in the production of our award-winning wines.”

Owner Nick Jones conveyed his gratitude, stating, “We are incredibly proud of this achievement, which is a culmination of the dedication and passion exhibited by our entire team at Mudbrick. This recognition motivates us to continue pushing boundaries and striving for excellence in every bottle we produce.”

Mudbrick Vineyard continues to set new standards in winemaking, guided by a commitment to quality, sustainability, and a deep appreciation for the artistry of wine production. With this recent win,

For more information on Mudbrick Vineyard and its award-winning collection, please contact Mudbrick’s General Manager Oscar Jones at oscar@mudbrick.co.nz

Press release for the Wai Wine Weekend

A collaboration from two of the top Island’s small, but mighty wine regions.

Get ready for an exhilarating fusion of flavours as Wairarapa Wine Region and Waiheke Island of Wine team up on Saturday September 30. This isn’t your usual weekend of wine tasting, it’s
a journey that will ignite taste buds and expand horizons.

Imagine; two powerhouse regions of quality from two of the top Island’s wine regions, each contributing to just 1% to New Zealand’s wine production, yet radiating with excellence.
Wairarapa boasts the cooler Northern European varieties, while Waiheke Island offers the Southern European varieties. It’s a symphony of flavours. It’s not all about the wine; become acquainted with the soul of these regions. Wairarapa and
Waiheke share a passion for wine, serious about their craft, yet always with a friendly smile and engaging tales of triumphs and turmoils.

Mark your calendar for an adventurous day of fine wine. Martinborough’s cellar doors will pair with Waiheke Island’s Casita Miro, Te Motu, Passage Rock, Woodside Hill, Obsidian and
possibly more. A day to dance with our two regions flavours, a collaborative celebration that will transport you.

And there’s more – a thrilling blind tasting showdown. Winemakers from both regions, united in pursuit of excellence, sipping each other’s creations incognito. The challenge? To crown
the best from the other side. A friendly battle, a clash of palates revealing each region’s essence. The finale – a communal dinner at Mesita in Martinborough. The victors will be revealed and
the celebration reaches its crescendo. Wine flows, delights amaze and connections form. The stage is set for Wairarapa to visit Waiheke Island of Wine in 2024, a bond beyond geography where New Zealand’s Wine Village and Wine island are on show. Get ready to sip, swirl, and savour.

Wairarapa and Waiheke call – will you answer?