A boutique organic winery in Nelson has scooped a bunch of awards at the Hong Kong International Wine Challenge.

Richmond Plains won two gold medals for its 2010 Sauvignon Blanc and 2009 Chardonnay as well as two silver medals in the competition’s new organic and biodynamic wine section. 

Owner Lars Jensen says while the company does export to traditional wine markets, a big part of its strategy is to target emerging wine markets in Asia. 

“So I think Hong Kong is probably one of the most dynamic wine markets in the world at the moment – it really is the gateway to Asia.

“That’s why we entered in the awards, not only to test ourselves in the international arena, but also to help support the sale of our wines in those markets.

“It’s going to be a big thing to be able to say to local customers that we’ve actually done well and won some great awards in their local competition.”

Mr Jensen says the company also picked up the Gentlemen’s Choice Award in Hong Kong for its Sauvignon Blanc which was voted on by men at the awards.