The Shout Magazine (New Zealand)

NZ’s largest wine exporter wins at 2016 New Zealand Food Awards

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VP Marketing Australasia at Constellation New Zealand Ltd, Nina Stojnic.

New Zealand’s largest wine exporter, Constellation Brands, has been awarded the Business Innovation Awards at the 2016 New Zealand Food Awards for their VNO Lighter range.

The VNO Lighter range has lower calories and alcohol content but still delivers on flavour, says Wendy Stuckey, Chief Winemaker for Constellation Brands NZ.

The range has been produced by applying innovative natural techniques in the vineyard and the winery, and industry research to reduce overall sugar and alcohol levels.

“We’re delighted to be recognised for the work we have put in to our VNO Lighter range at this year’s NZ Food Awards, our aim is to innovate where our consumers guide us,” says Stuckey.

“The VNO Lighter range is the perfect option for people who want more control over their intake and to consume fewer calories, but still enjoy a wine filled with concentrated flavours. It’s a great choice with summer just around the corner,” she says.

VNO Lighter Constellation Brands is part of a collaborative ‘Lifestyle Wines’ research programme led by New Zealand Winegrowers, co-funded under the Ministry for Primary Industries’ (MPI) Primary Growth Partnership (PGP).

The programme aims to position New Zealand as Number one in the world for high-quality, lower alcohol and lower calorie wines.