Formed in 2005, the New Zealand International Wine Show is already established as the largest wine competition held in New Zealand. In its inaugural year there were over 1900 entries rising to a record 2155 in 2007.

The judging will take place over three days from September 15th, and many of the country's most experienced senior wine judges will participate.

This year's competition will be conducted under the Chairmanship of two of this country's legendary winemakers. Larry McKenna and Peter Cowley have decades of wine show experience, ensuring the judging is of the highest standards. The senior judges involve a number of leading winemakers, several Masters of Wine and many key industry personnel.

Wines from any country and made from any variety can be entered so it is vitally important the judges have the experience to match the enormous range of wines that will be submitted.

The results of the judge's efforts will be presented at the Awards Dinner at Auckland's Crowne Plaza Hotel on Saturday 27th September. At this Gala dinner, in addition to the announcement of the Trophies, the Gold Medals and the Champion Wine of the Show, this year's recipient of the George Fistonich Medal will be revealed. Presented to a Legend of Wine in New Zealand, this prestigious award will be presented to someone who is living in New Zealand and has made a major contribution to the development and profile of New Zealand wine. The previous recipients of The George Fistonich Medal have been Bob Campbell MW (2005), Kevin Judd (2006) and Terry Dunleavy MBE in 2007. Who will it be in 2008?