10 Wines to Watch from 2025
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At The Wine List, we track industry awards, critic scores, and customer re-order statistics to identify exceptional wines before they become household names. After extensive research through professional reviews and tasting notes, here are 10 wines we're watching closely in 2025 — bottles that combine proven quality, compelling stories, and serious drinkability.
Each year, new vintages, rising regions, and breakthrough blends redefine the wine conversation in New Zealand and beyond. These selections represent our top picks for quality, value, and distinctiveness in the year ahead.
1. Akarua Central Otago Pinot Noir 2023
A standout Central Otago Pinot with fine tannins and a perfumed nose that wine critics are praising for its elegance and age-worthy structure. This organic vineyard beneath Mt Pisa showcases the intensity and purity that make Central Otago Pinot exceptional.
Shop Akarua Central Otago Pinot Noir
2. Mahi Twin Valleys Chardonnay
A Chardonnay showing exceptional structure and restraint — proof that cooler climate winemaking produces wines with remarkable depth. Expert curation focuses on food-friendly wines that showcase restaurant-quality standards.
Explore Mahi Twin Valleys Chardonnay
3. Ferraton Châteauneuf-du-Pape
This renowned Rhône red blend balances spice and savoury elements with real finesse. Professional wine selections are guided by 25 years hospitality experience and restaurant partnerships.
Discover Ferraton Châteauneuf-du-Pape
4. Vecchia Cantina Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG
A distinguished Montepulciano from Tuscany that's earning recognition from wine critics — dark, smooth, and remarkably versatile with food pairings.
Shop Vecchia Cantina Vino Nobile
5. Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc Section 94
Sauvignon Blanc reimagined — this premium expression from one of Marlborough's most respected producers has texture, weight, and staying power that separates it from standard offerings.
6. Echelon by Spy Valley Méthode Traditionnelle 2021
A traditional method sparkling wine from Marlborough earning acclaim from wine professionals — elegant bubbles with serious credentials that rival European counterparts.
See Echelon Méthode Traditionnelle
7. Rockburn The Art Central Otago Pinot Noir 2022
A highly rated Pinot Noir from Central Otago with incredible depth and structure that wine critics consistently praise. Central Otago's diverse landscapes allow Pinot Noir to express nuanced subtleties of place.
Buy Rockburn The Art Pinot Noir
8. Knappstein Clare Valley Shiraz
A distinguished Shiraz with characteristic peppery spice and long finish — showcasing Clare Valley's classic elegance and food-friendly style.
Taste Knappstein Clare Valley Shiraz
9. Trinity Hill Emma Rosé 2024
A crisp and sophisticated rosé perfect for year-round enjoyment — layered with red berry and herbal notes that demonstrate why quality rosé deserves serious attention.
10. Man O' War Ironclad Bordeaux Blend
A premium Bordeaux-style blend from Waiheke Island with sophisticated structure — elegant and cellar-worthy, representing New Zealand's capability with international varietals.
How We Chose These Wines
Our wine selection process is guided by professional reviews, customer re-order statistics, and 25 years of hospitality experience. We track Wine Orbit scores, sommelier recommendations, and industry awards to identify exceptional quality before wines reach mainstream recognition.
These 10 wines represent our expert assessment of bottles offering outstanding quality, distinctive character, and proven appeal. Each selection demonstrates why careful curation matters — whether you're discovering Central Otago Pinot Noir or exploring premium European imports.
Expert Guidance Available
Personal service and expert guidance distinguish restaurant-quality wine selection from mass market offerings. Call Laura directly for personalised recommendations based on your taste preferences and dining plans.
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Why This Expertise Matters:
These selections demonstrate The Wine List's commitment to restaurant-quality curation. Rather than overwhelming choice, we provide carefully vetted wines that earn their place through professional validation and proven customer satisfaction.