NATIONAL OFF-LICENCE ASSOCIATION UNVEILS
2011-2012 AWARD-WINNING WINES IN IRELAND
Old World White & Red both secure ‘Wine of the Year’ accolades
15 wines from around the world, priced to appeal to all budgets, were selected for exclusive inclusion in the National Off-Licence Association’s (NOffLA) Gold Star 2011-2012 Wine Collection, unveiled today at the Association’s annual SIP Drinks Show 2011 @ Krystle in Harcourt Street.
Edward Dillon & Co. Ltd swept the board winning 4 out of the 15 Gold Star award categories. Findlater Wine & Spirit Group picked up the much coveted ‘Wine of the Year 2011-2012’ award and Overall Award Winner, for J. MOREAU & FILS CHABLIS 2010 while the equally prestigious ‘Red Wine of the Year 2011-2012,’ went to Gleeson incorporating Gilbeys for MARQUÉS DE MURRIETA RESERVA 2005
With over 500 wines typically available in any NOffLA outlet, the Gold Star Awards enable consumers to identify some of the very best wines available in Ireland.
The winning wines were awarded on the basis of appearance, smell, taste and value for money. Each of the 15 award winners is available in NOffLA’s 330+ independent off licences around the country and will be clearly identifiable, on shelf.
According to NOffLA Chairperson, Evelyn Jones, the Gold Star Awards play a key role in communicating the variety of excellent wines available in Ireland, at different price points; “The awards are categorised by price so have gained a reputation, over the past ten years, for being the essential guide for selecting great wines at any price,” said Ms. Jones. “There is sometimes a misconception that the higher the price, the better the quality of wine. But, four of NOffLA’s Gold Star winners retail at under €8 so we are confident that consumers will be able to pick up some superb wines, whether they want to spend €7.99 or €19.99.
“The Gold Star Awards brochure, which includes tasting notes, will also provide shoppers with the confidence to try new wines that are selected and recommended by an expert tasting panel.”
NOffLA’s annual SIP Drinks Show took place @ Krystle in Harcourt Street where distributors showcased their portfolios and promotions for Christmas and the year ahead.
2011-2012 Gold Star Awards Winners
Old World White Under €8
Sauvignon L’Abbaye Vins de Pays de Loire 2010
Old World White Under €14
Marqués de Riscal Rueda 2010
Old World White Under €20
J. Moreau & Fils Chablis 2010
“WINE OF THE YEAR 2011-2012”
New World White Under €8
Hazy View Chenin Blanc 2011
New World White Under €14
Jacob's Creek Reserve Chardonnay 2009
New World White Under €20
Wolf Blass President's Selection Chardonnay 2010
Rosé Under €15
Rosemount Diamond Cellars Rosé 2009
Old World Red Under €8
Castillo de Benizar Tempranillo 2010
Old World Red Under €14
San Donaci Contrada del Falco 2009
Old World Red Under €20
Marqués de Murrieta Reserva 2005
“RED WINE OF THE YEAR 2011-2012”
New World Red Under €8
Obikwa Shiraz 2010
New World Red Under €14
Secret Pinot Noir 2010
New World Red Under €20
Wakefield Jaraman Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Sparkling Wine Under €25
Campo Viejo Cava NV
Champagne Under €60
Veuve Clicquot NV