Best New Zealand Red Wines of 2026
Crack into the best red wines from the New World Wine Awards 2026 Top 30 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 2026 gold medal winners.
Best Pinot Noir under $30
| RUA Pinot Noir 2024Variety: Pinot Noir Price: Under $30 Key notes: A juicy Pinot Noir and an easy gift for red-wine fans. Enjoy with pizza, creamy chicken or dumplings. |
| Sliding Hill Pinot Noir 2025Variety: Pinot Noir Price: Under $30 Key notes: An elegant Pinot Noir that makes dinner feel special. Enjoy with lamb or earthy mushroom dishes. |
| Luna Estate Pinot Noir 2024Variety: Pinot Noir Price: Under $30 Key notes: A smooth Pinot Noir that’s lovely to give or share. Pair with duck and mushroom risotto. |
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Best Shiraz & Syrah under $30
| Mission Estate Syrah 2024Variety: Shiraz and Syrah Price: Under $30 Key notes: An approachable Hawke’s Bay Syrah that makes a great gift. Serve with smoked beef, spicy dishes or aged cheese. |
| Penfolds Koonunga Hill Shiraz 2024Variety: Shiraz and Syrah Price: Under $30 Key notes: A smooth, generous Shiraz that red-wine fans will appreciate. Enjoy with barbecued meat or a hearty roast. |
| T-Bone South Australia Shiraz 2024Variety: Shiraz and Syrah Price: Under $30 Key notes: A rich, crowd-pleasing Shiraz for hearty dinners. Enjoy with barbecued steak, burgers or slow-cooked beef. |
Best Red Blends under $30
| Villa Maria Cellar Selection Hawkes Bay Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon 2024Variety: Red Blends Price: Under $30 Key notes: A BIG red with opulent fruit, velvety tannins and appealing oak spice. |
| Delas St-Esprit Côtes-du-Rhône Rouge 2024Variety: Red Blends Price: Under $30 Key notes: Silky and intense with gorgeous dark fruit and crushed stone minerality. |
Best Single Variety Reds under $30
| Trivento Reserve Malbec 2024Variety: Single Variety Red Price: Under $30 Key notes: A smooth, juicy Malbec that’s easy to gift and enjoy. Pair with grilled meat, pasta or a cheeseboard. |
| Villa Maria Private Bin Hawkes Bay Merlot 2025Variety: Single Variety Red Price: Under $30 Key notes: A soft, velvety red made for sharing. Enjoy with roast meat, Mediterranean dishes or cheese. |
