Isabel Estate’s Wild Barrique Chardonnay has been named Wine of the Year at the 2025 London Wine Competition, marking a significant achievement for the New Zealand winery. This is the first time Isabel Estate has participated in the prestigious event, which evaluates wines based on three key factors: quality, value, and packaging.
The London Wine Competition, now in its eighth year, is renowned for its rigorous judging process, which brings together a panel of influential wine buyers, master sommeliers, importers, and industry experts from across the globe. This year, the competition featured hundreds of wines from more than 50 countries, all of which were blind-tasted, assessed, and scored.
Jeremy McKenzie, Chief Winemaker at Isabel Estate, expressed his excitement over the win, particularly as the team is in the midst of harvesting the 2025 vintage of Wild Barrique Chardonnay. “We’re thrilled with this recognition,” McKenzie said. “The 2025 Wild Barrique has the potential to be another outstanding wine. Since its first vintage in 2016, this wine has consistently impressed both consumers and critics alike, earning high scores and praise.”
McKenzie highlighted the exceptional quality of the 2022 vintage, which has garnered numerous accolades over the years. “The 2022 Wild Barrique is a standout,” he added. “Its complexity, concentration, and remarkable length have made it a favorite among wine enthusiasts. It’s a wine that ages beautifully, making it a worthy addition to any cellar.”
Judges at the London Wine Competition praised the Wild Barrique Chardonnay for its striking and pungent nose, as well as its dark, elegant packaging, which further contributed to its top honors.
You Might Be Interested In:
