Top Of The Drops: New World Wine Awards 2025 Champion Recipe Pairings

Take your glass to the next level with dishes designed to match each Champion wine from the 2025 New World Wine Awards. From vibrant whites to bold reds and sparkling wines made for celebrating, these recipes are the perfect partners for every drop.

The Hunting Lodge Seasonal Albariño Marlborough 2025 and our Crayfish with Miso and Spring Onion Butter

Judges note: A vibrant, textural white with bright stonefruit and fresh lime – Albariño is fast becoming a Kiwi favourite.
Recipe: Succulent crayfish meets a buttery glaze with umami miso, zesty lime, and a hint of ginger. Finished on the barbecue, it’s smoky, rich, and full of flavour.

Lindauer Special Reserve Brut NV and our Spaghetti with Wilted Greens, Lemon and Parmesan

Judges note: A reimagined classic with a creamy texture and perfumed nose – perfect for celebrations or Sunday brunch.
Recipe: Silky spaghetti tossed with garlicky greens, chilli, and a generous shaving of parmesan. Light yet satisfying, it pairs beautifully with effervescent sparkling wine.

Mount Riley Chardonnay 2024 and our Zucchini, Mozzarella, Lemon and Chilli Pizzas

Judges note: Complex with ripe citrus and toasty oak, offering a well-balanced and inviting character.
Recipe: Crispy bases topped with layers of zucchini, melty mozzarella, and a pop of lemon zest, finished with a hint of chilli heat. Fresh, zesty, and a little fiery.

Dashwood Pinot Gris 2024 and our Vegetarian Ramen

Judges note: A real crowd pleaser with delicious fruit, spice and endless charm.
Recipe: A steaming bowl of miso-rich broth layered with noodles, golden tofu, mushrooms, bok choy, and soft-boiled eggs. Comforting, hearty, and full of umami.

Mountford Estate Pinot Noir 2021 and our Jacket Potatoes with Beef and Mushroom Ragu

Judges note: Poised and plush with savoury spice and a velvety texture.
Recipe: Golden baked potatoes with fluffy centres and crisp skins are comfort food at its best. Add a dollop of sour cream and horseradish, then pile on a rich, savoury ragu, and you’ve got an easy, family-friendly meal that feels both hearty and indulgent.

Reillys Barking Mad Grenache Shiraz 2021 and our One-pot Chocolate Cake

Judges note: A BIG red with opulent fruit, velvety tannins and appealing oak spice.
Recipe: This is the perfect cake to sling in the picnic basket or take away for the weekend as the chocolate frosting sets firmly and the cake has a fabulous dense texture.

SOHO HARRY Rosé 2024 and our Salmon with Silky Pea Purée and Herb Salad

Judges note: Vibrant and elegant, bursting with creamy strawberry and a silky finish.
Recipe: Perfectly seared salmon laid over a smooth, buttery pea purée and finished with a zesty herb salad. Fresh, vibrant, and elegant enough for a dinner party yet quick enough for weeknights.

Yealands Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2024 and our Lemon Risotto, Herby Pea Swirl and Asparagus

Judges note: Opulent with intense fruit and herb aromas and salty acidity.
Recipe: Creamy risotto lifted with fresh lemon, swirled with a vibrant pea and herb purée, and finished with tender asparagus and stracciatella.

Ringbolt Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 and our Mushroom Gnocchi with Brie

Judges note: Refined, delicious Australian Cabernet with tremendous appeal.
Recipe:Earthy mushroom, salty pancetta and decadent brie come together like magic in this simple yet decadent dish.

Church Road McDonald Series Syrah 2021 and our Twice-cooked Duck with Cherry and Red Wine Sauce

Judges note: Champion Red and textbook Syrah - bold, supple and laden with gorgeous berry fruit.
Recipe: Crisp-skinned duck meets a luscious cherry and red wine sauce in this elegant twice-cooked dish. The sweet-tart fruit, warming spices, and deep savoury notes make it a showstopper for dinner parties — and a natural partner for a bold, full-bodied red like Syrah.