Jo Cribb Unveils Top Wine Picks for 2025, Celebrating Innovation

As 2025 approaches, wine connoisseur Jo Cribb has shared her top selections in a year-end review, highlighting innovative trends and standout varietals. Her insights aim to guide wine lovers in choosing the best options as they celebrate the festive season and look forward to the new year.

Highlights of 2025 Wine Trends

Cribb’s selection begins with the award for the best innovation in wine, which she bestows upon the spritz. This refreshing cocktail is a delightful blend of prosecco, soda water, and a garnish of basil. Cribb expresses her enthusiasm for enjoying a long limoncello or aperol spritz while relaxing with a good book in January.

On the other end of the spectrum, Cribb identifies zero-alcohol wine as the most disappointing choice of the year. She suggests that those seeking a low-alcohol option should consider topping their full-strength sauvignon blanc with soda water or adding ice cubes to their rosé. For a truly alcohol-free experience, she recommends opting for beer instead.

New Zealand’s sparkling wines, particularly those crafted using the méthode traditionnelle, receive high praise from Cribb as the most consistently underrated wines. She asserts that these wines offer world-class quality at a fraction of the price of their French counterparts, often surpassing them in flavor.

Top Picks for Red Wines

When it comes to red wines, Cribb declares a tie between two exceptional varietals: the robust and brooding Martinborough pinot noir and the silky, elegant Hawke’s Bay syrah. Both wines, she notes, are perfect accompaniments for summer barbecues, promising to enhance any gathering with their rich flavors.

As for specific recommendations, Cribb highlights the Spritzzetto, a premium Italian style spritz priced at $24 for four 250 ml cans. Created by two New Zealanders inspired by their experiences in Venice, this drink combines premium wine, Italian aperitif, and sparkling water for a refreshing taste that mirrors homemade versions.

Another standout is the Oak Estate Syrah 2023 from Hawke’s Bay, available for $34. This wine offers a luscious experience, with flavors of juicy red and black berries, making it an ideal pairing for grilled meats. Cribb describes its mouthfeel as silky velvet, perfect for enjoying good conversation.

Finally, the Alexia Méthode Traditionelle Rosé from Wairarapa, priced at $42, rounds out Cribb’s recommendations. This sparkling wine is noted for its crispness and vibrant flavors, including bright strawberry and citrus, complemented by hints of hazelnut and crushed arrowroot biscuits.

As the year concludes, Cribb encourages readers to indulge in these selections and enjoy the pleasures of wine. She looks forward to sharing more insights in 2026, wishing everyone happy sipping as they celebrate the festive season.