Record number of entries for Air NZ wine awards

A record number of entries have been received for the Air New Zealand Wine Awards.

The 1,755 entries are the most in the 30-year history of the contest.

Most are in the Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir categories, with 320 and 296 entries respectively.

There has also been a significant increase in aromatic entries, such as Pinot Gris - up by 46 per cent, Riesling and Gewurztraminer, which has attracted a record 68 entrants.

Regionally, Marlborough vineyards dominate the event, followed by Hawkes Bay.

Judging by a 26-strong panel will take place over three days early in November, with all wines critiqued for either a Bronze, Silver or Gold medal.

Outstanding wines will be awarded an Elite Gold medal, and there are numerous trophies for individual categories.

Almost 1800 entries have been received for next month's Air New Zealand Wine Awards. Photo / Dean Purcell