Crack into 7 of the best red wines from the New World Wine Awards 2025 Gold Winners. Pinot Noir & more. Affordable & delicious - ready for summer.
The New World Wine Awards judges some of the best red wines from across New Zealand and around the world. It’s incredible to see some local Kiwi vineyards hold their own against some well-established wineries from Australia, Europe and South America.
So if you’re looking for a bold, punchy Syrah, an intensely rich Cabernet Sauvignon or a gentle, fruity Pinot Noir, you can’t look past these 2025 gold medal winners.
Best New Zealand Red Blend under $30
Pair our top blends with these food recommendations:
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Malbec are typically used in red blends, therefore similar food matches work well here. Although these wines can be powerful and substantial, they can also be gentler with elegant harmony and sophistication.
Red wine risotto with assorted mushrooms would be comfortingly delicious. The stylish beef Wellington with rich gravy works beautifully. Moreover, it’s a satisfying wine to finish a meal with aged cheeses and quince paste.
Squawking Magpie The Chatterer Merlot Cabernet 2022
Variety: Red Blends
Price: Under $30
Key notes: A classic Bordeaux blend that is punchy, flavoursome, and vibrant.
Related article:
Read our guide to popular red wine blends.
6 best New Zealand Pinot Noir under $30
Pair our favourite pinot noirs with these foods:
Pinot Noir is lighter in colour and richness than some reds but does not lack in power to enhance a wide range of dishes. Fabulous with duck confit with duck fat roasted potatoes, rack of lamb with herb crust and meltingly delicious slow-cooked pork belly. It can partner poultry as well as beefy casseroles, and the iconic pizza margherita is absolutely yummy with Pinot.
Hãhã 2024 Marlborough Pinot Noir
Variety: Pinot Noir
Price: Under $30
Key notes: Richly expressive Pinot Noir bursting with pretty florals and generous fruit.
Mountford Estate Pinot Noir 2021
Variety: Pinot Noir
Price: Under $30
Key notes: Poised and plush with savoury spice and a velvety texture.
RUA Pinot Noir 2023
Variety: Pinot Noir
Price: Under $30
Key notes: Fruit, spice and everything nice from Central Otago.
The Crater Rim Waipara Pinot Noir 2021
Variety: Pinot Noir
Price: Under $30
Key notes: Nicely aged Pinot Noir with dark fruit, leather and a chewy finish.
Three Paddles Pinot Noir 2024
Variety: Pinot Noir
Price: Under $30
Key notes: Sophisticated with layers of dark fruit, dried herbs and a velvety texture.
Villa Maria Private Bin Pinot Noir Marlborough 2023
Variety: Pinot Noir
Price: Under $30
Key notes: Vibrant with ripe cherry and raspberry aromas, with a smooth silky palate.
Related article:
Fancy a glass of red?
Want to find more award-winning wines for under $30 a bottle? Take a look at our pick of the best New Zealand wines of 2025. Or, use our wine finder tool to search for a wine that takes your fancy.
Ready to try some award-winning New Zealand red wines? All of our Gold medal-winners are available online now from your local New World. There are limited quantities of some red wine vintages available.
Whatever the occasion, these award winning red wines are ready for you to share and enjoy.
Related articles:
Read our guide to Shiraz and Syrah wine
Best New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs
Top white wines of 2025
5 of the best Pinot Noirs of 2025
Best wines for under $30