Wines Tasted During 2020
Here is a list of all the wines I tasted and reviewed in 2020 – feel free to browse and if there are any you’d like to try, just click the link for each wine to visit the producer’s website. Wines listed in order of tasting with the latest first. Cheers, JB
To Submit Wine visit – https://nzwinedirectory.co.nz/about/wine-reviews/
DECEMBER
Moana Park Estate ‘Growers Collection’ Syrah 2019 Hawke’s Bay NZ.
Deep purple to black-cherry in colour, medium bodied. Fragrant nose of blackberry & raspberry fruit, black pepper & sweet spice aromas. On the palate there are ripe dark summer berry fruit flavours, a savoury peppery note, with wonderful depth, texture & flavours. Silky tannins, fine oak & medium acidity all in balance. Excellent value HB / GG Syrah – Lengthy dry elegant finish. Smokey marinated baby-back pork ribs for dinner – Perfect. RRP:$25.00 https://moanaparkcellar.co.nz/
Moana Park Estate Albarino 2020, Hawke’s Bay NZ.
Shiny & bright pale lemon gold in colour, medium bodied. Gorgeous nose brimming with aromas of ripe stone-fruit, citrus & a hint of pepper. A full flavoured palate with layers of peaches, nectarine, lemons & a savoury salty mineral note, crisp limey acidity & nice oak influence from 100% barrel ferment – a delicious richly textured wine with a long juicy finish. A very special treat. RRP:$45.00
https://moanaparkcellar.co.nz/
Giesen ‘Uncharted’ Pinot Noir 2019, Marlborough NZ
Bright ruby red in colour, paler at the rim, medium bodied. Fresh nose of ripe cherry, a little savoury green stalk, some subtle oak & spice notes to finish. Very smooth integrated palate with plum & cherry fruit flavours, a little savoury oak influence, fine tannins & soft acidity all finishing in balance. A gorgeous Pinot Noir and at RRP: $30 is an absolute steal. https://giesen.co.nz/
Giesen ‘Uncharted’ Chardonnay 2020, Marlborough NZ
Light bright lemon gold in colour medium bodied. In the nose there’s ripe stone-fruit & lemon citrus aromas with nutty oak & a whiff of gun-smoke. The palate is full flavoured with lots of nectarine, grapefruit & lemon flavours, a slightly tart acidity balanced with creamy, buttery texture & mouthfeel – perfect oak influence from time in barrel & fuder both new & old. Wonderful Chardonnay – The ABC crowd don’t know what they are missing! RRP:$30.00 https://giesen.co.nz/
Giesen ‘Uncharted’ Sauvignon Blanc 2020, Awatere Marlborough, NZ
Pale straw-gold in colour with a delightfully fresh nose of tropical pineapple, lime citrus & savoury green stalk – herbal notes. Intense grapefruit & lime citrus flavours on the palate, with a zesty acidity, nicely textured / balanced with lovely complexity & weight from time on lees and in barrel. A great example of Awatere Valley Sauvignon. RRP:$20.00 https://giesen.co.nz/
Koparepare Pinot Noir 2018, Marlborough NZ
Bright & shiny cherry-red to crimson coloured, medium bodied wine. Lovely fragrant nose of red summer berries, cherries & some softer savoury herb & subtle spiced oak notes in the background. Full flavoured palate with spiced red berry & cherry fruits, silky tannins & fine oak add to the texture. Long dry finish – beautifully balanced & very tasty indeed. Excellent value. RRP: $24.00
$1.00 from every bottle sold is donated to LegaSea NZ https://whitehaven.co.nz/pages/koparepare
Koparepare Pinot Noir Rosé 2020, Marlborough NZ
Crystal-clear soft salmon-pink in colour, lighter bodied wine. The nose is filled with ripe raspberry & sweet strawberry aromas, fragrant & delicate – the palate presents more raspberry, strawberry & cream with a little stone-fruit, and medium acidity all in balance. Lovely flavours, nicely textured, crisp dry finish – this is a perfect summer tipple, shared with friends on the deck at dusk. RRP: $19.00 $1.00 from every bottle sold is donated to LegaSea. https://whitehaven.co.nz/pages/koparepare
Koparepare Chardonnay 2018, Marlborough NZ
Bright pale lemon gold in colour, light viscosity, medium bodied. The nose is of ripe peaches & citrus with a hint of butterscotch & subtle toasty oak. More stone-fruit flavours, lemon-lime citrus acidity on the palate, textured, creamy & lush – dry very moreish finish – Classy Chardonnay! $1.00 from every bottle sold is donated to LegaSea. RRP: $19.00 https://whitehaven.co.nz/pages/koparepare
Koparepare Pinot Gris 2020 Marlborough NZ
Shiny pale straw coloured wine with medium viscosity. The nose is full & fragrant with floral notes, spiced pear & stone-fruit aromas. The palate is textured with a nice pear skin grip, medium acidity & juicy stone fruit flavours, along with some confectionery & nutty elements ends in a lovely long finish! $1.00 from every bottle sold is donated to LegaSea. RRP:$19.00 https://whitehaven.co.nz/pages/koparepare
Koparepare Sauvignon Blanc 2020 Marlborough NZ
Crystal clear wine with the faintest green / gold tinge. The nose is bursting with passion-fruit, lime citrus aromas & a whiff of cut grass / green herb. The palate is packed with ripe citrus & tropical fruit flavours, lovely crunchy limey acidity, and a very long dry finish. Vegan Friendly & $1.00 from every bottle sold is donated to LegaSea. RRP:$19.00 https://whitehaven.co.nz/pages/koparepare
Koparepare “Lighter” Sauvignon Blanc 2020, Marlborough NZ
Pale straw coloured with a hint of green, medium viscosity. Fragrant nose of lemons & limes with a little green capsicum / herbal note. Lovely vibrant acidity on the palate with ripe citrus fruit flavours and a steely minerality, a little residual sugar on the finish makes a refreshing medium-dry savvy. Excellent wine for those who prefer a lighter alcohol with great flavour & weight. Alc 10.0% RRP:$19.00 $1.00 from every bottle sold is donated to LegaSea. https://whitehaven.co.nz/pages/koparepare
Hanmer Springs Pinot Noir 2018, North Canterbury NZ
Medium cherry red in colour, slightly opaque & lighter bodied. In the nose there’s aromas of plum & raspberry, savoury notes & a hint of toasty oak. The palate is elegant & subtle, fine tannins & medium acidity all in balance with juicy fruit flavours – a silky, soft velvety finish – very easy to drink too. Excellent! RRP: $40.00 https://www.hanmerspringswines.com/
Hanmer Springs Chardonnay 2018, North Canterbury NZ
Straw gold to pale yellow in colour, lighter bodied wine. Fragrant fruit-forward nose with stone-fruit & citrus aromas. The palate is clean, fresh & fruity with stone-fruit & lemon flavours – nicely textured with softer acidity – beautifully balanced & integrated wine made naturally. Great value RRP: $25.00 https://www.hanmerspringswines.com/
Hanmer Springs ‘Field Blend’ 2019, North Canterbury NZ
Interesting blend of Chardonnay & Pinot Gris with a small amount of Riesling & Gruner Veltliner, foot crushed, & fermented with wild yeasts in stainless. Unfined & unfiltered. Medium gold coloured wine with a slight haze, medium viscosity. Intense nose with aromas of ripe stone-fruit, spiced pear, orange citrus & a whiff of gunsmoke? The palate is textured & complex with a lovely blend of citrus, peach & nectarine flavours, medium acidity & a long dry finish. Overall a really interesting wine – I liked it. RRP:$25.00
https://www.hanmerspringswines.com/
Hanmer Springs ‘Growers Series’ Sauvignon Blanc 2019, North Canterbury NZ.
Bright golden coloured wine with a shy nose of citrus, passion-fruit & capsicum aromas. The palate is nicely balanced with grape-fruity citrus & stone-fruit flavours, crisp acidity, slight ‘wet stone’ textural elements & a long juicy finish. S/S Ferment & aging in a Ceramic egg has produced a subtle, interesting & different style of Sauvignon Blanc. RRP:$20.00 https://www.hanmerspringswines.com/
Cirro Pinot Noir 2019 Marlborough NZ
Deep cherry red in colour, lighter at the rim. Lovely nose of ripe cherries & plums with a hint of fresh baking spices. A full palate with ripe plum, cherry & dark fruit flavours, ripe tannins & fine oak influence. Textured, bright acidity, balanced, rounded, dry finish – damn good Pinot at the price. RRP:$20.00 http://www.cirrowines.com/
Cirro Rosé 100% Pinot Noir 2020 Marlborough NZ
Shiny / clear pale raspberry coloured wine with “great legs” (viscosity – pardon the pun Dave.) The nose is filled with ripe raspberry, strawberry & spice aromas. The palate is full of red berry fruit flavours, slightly creamy with lighter tannins & a refreshing acidity, with some residual sweetness on the finish. Really good value Rosé. RRP:$15.00 http://www.cirrowines.com/
Cirro Pinot Gris 2020 Marlborough NZ
Bright pale copper coloured, medium bodied wine. Lovely sweet cotton-candy, peach & pear aromas prominent in the nose. The palate is nicely balanced & filled with spiced pear & stone-fruit flavours, finely textured, perhaps some oak influence? A long dry flavour-full finish. Very Good! RRP:$15.00 http://www.cirrowines.com/
Cirro Organic Sauvignon Blanc 2020 Marlborough NZ
Shiny pale straw coloured wine – A savoury nose with a whiff of armpit, minerality & herbs. The palate is lively & rich with vibrant flavours of citrus and tropical fruit. Citrus & sweet stone-fruit flavours all in balance with a zingy gritty acidity – wet stone textured & a long dry finish. Very moreish! RRP:$15.00 http://www.cirrowines.com/
Cirro Sauvignon Blanc 2020 Marlborough NZ
Very pale with the slightest hint of gold in colour. Aromas of green herb, nettles, tropical fruit & gooseberries in the nose. Lighter style savvy with bright acidity, ripe citrus & stone-fruit flavours. Fresh & crisp wine – nice easy drinking for the summer evening BBQ & great value too. RRP:$15.00 http://www.cirrowines.com/
NOVEMBER
Mahi Pinot Noir 2019, Marlborough, NZ
Deep cherry red in colour to the rim – very faint haze, medium bodied wine. Gorgeous nose of ripe plum & cherry aromas & a hint of spicy oak. Vibrant dark cherry fruit flavours on the palate with a savoury green herbal note – velvety tannins, medium acidity & integrated oak influence combine in a fruity, long and dry finish. Still young & will improve with a little more ageing. Elegant & Excellent. RRP:$34.00
https://mahiwine.co.nz/
Mahi Chardonnay 2018, Marlborough NZ
Bright shiny gold in colour with great legs – medium bodied. The nose is full of peach, grapefruit, ripe apple & leesy aromas with a hint of nutty butterscotch. Full flavoured palate with layers of complexity & texture – stone-fruit, citrus, green apple & spice along with lively acidity & creamy lees mouthfeel – Finishes beautifully, rounded, balanced – excellent chardonnay at a great price. RRP: $29.00 https://mahiwine.co.nz/
Mahi Pinot Noir Rosè 2020, Marlborough NZ
Very pale pretty pink in colour, translucent with slight copper hues. A fragrant nose of cherry, strawberry & cream aromas & I got a hint of candyfloss. Ripe strawberry & cherry fruit flavours on the palate with balance & poise – a lovely fresh acidity, & light tannins give way to a long bone-dry finish – Crisp delicate, juicy and downright yum! RRP: $24.00 https://mahiwine.co.nz/
Mahi Pinot Gris 2020, Marlborough NZ
Pale onion skin coloured wine with lightly oily viscosity, medium bodied. A fragrant nose of ripe pear, peach & hints of spice aromas while the palate is complex & layered with flavours of stone-fruit, citrus, apple & tart grapefruit acidity. Bone dry with nice fruit intensity & layers of mineral / stony / pear-skin textural elements & a very long lasting finish. Absolutely Delish. RRP:$23.00 https://mahiwine.co.nz/
Mahi Sauvignon Blanc 2019, Marlborough NZ
Clear bright pale straw-gold in colour, medium bodied. The nose of citrus, apple, stonefruit & a whiff of yeasty lees aromas was delicate, subtle & quite lovely. The palate was complex, layered & textured with beautifully integrated citrus & stone-fruit flavours , fresh lemony acidity along with some gentle creamy lees & oak influence. A beautiful example of Marlborough Sauvignon – Elegant & refined – Excellent stuff! RRP:$24.00 https://mahiwine.co.nz/
Delta Estate Hatter’s Hill Sauvignon Blanc 2020, Marlborough, NZ
Pale straw in colour with a pale gold tinge. Lovely nose of ripe stone-fruit, passion-fruit & a fragrant herbal / stalky note too. On the palate there’s ripe apple, peach & tropical fruit flavours with a grippy textural mouthfeel, steely acidity & a long persistent finish that gets the juices flowing. Excellent quality wine! Love it, you will too. RRP:29.00 https://www.deltawines.co.nz/
Delta Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2020 Marlborough NZ
Almost crystal-clear coloured with a hint of pale green. The nose is quite intense with bright citrusy aromas, & a savoury whiff of wet stone & arm-pit to finish? The palate is all vibrant juicy lemon/ lime fruit flavours, nicely textured, zesty acidity and a long mouth-watering finish. Classic Marlborough Savvy! RRP: $20.00 https://www.deltawines.co.nz/
Matawhero Single Vineyard Gewurztraminer 2020, Gisborne NZ.
Light straw gold in colour with ‘lovely legs’ (nice viscocity) In the nose there’s floral notes, spice & sweet pear aromas, while on the palate the mouth is filled with spice, ginger, pear & turkish delight flavours – beautifully balanced. It’s very subtle, delicate & delicious.
RRP:$23.00 https://matawhero.co.nz/
Matawhero Single Vineyard Pinot Noir Rosé 2020, Gisborne NZ.
Pale salmon pink in colour with copper hues – inviting aromas of summer strawberries & floral notes in the nose. The palate is medium-dry & full of flavour with stonefruit, strawberries & cream predominant, a hint of spice, gentle acidity & a juicy succulent finish – a scrummy summer sip! RRP:$23.00 https://matawhero.co.nz/
Matawhero Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2020 Gisborne NZ.
Pale straw, crystal clear wine. Intensly herbaceous nose with sweet tropical fruit aromas. A grippy minerally textured palate with passionfruit & peach fruit flavours, crisp tart acidity, juicy and very moreish. Rich, vibrant, intense! RRP:$23.00
https://matawhero.co.nz/
Yealands Estate ‘Reserve’ Rosé 2020, Marlborough NZ
A blend of Pinot Gris & Pinot Noir, pretty pale watermelon-pink coloured wine with a lovely fragrant nose of raspberry, strawberry & candyfloss aromas. The palate is lush & full of sweet summer berry flavours, crisp acidity, layers of texture & a long juicy finish. Just the wine for summer evenings, sitting on the deck with friends & a cheese platter! Nom Nom! RRP:$23.00 https://www.yealands.co.nz/
Rapaura Springs ‘Limestone Terrace Vineyard’ Pinot Noir 2018, Ward, Marlborough NZ.
Shiny ruby-red coloured wine lighter at the rim, medium bodied. The nose is full of red & dark berry aromas with a whiff of spice & fragrant garden herb notes. Red berry & plum flavours predominant on a ‘fruit forward’ palate with soft acidity, gentle tannins & fine spicy oak. Balanced, rounded mouthfeel & a long dry, flavourful finish. Very elegant & drinking beautifully. RRP:$50.00 https://rapaurasprings.co.nz/
Rapaura Springs ‘Rohe – Awatere Valley’ Pinot Noir 2018, Marlborough NZ
Bright shiny ruby-red in colour, lighter bodied. Lots of red berry & cherry aromas on the nose with soft savoury herbal notes. The palate is full & textured with tart raspberry, ripe cherry & plum flavours, lovely fine tannins, subtle oak influence & a lively acidity. Finishes long & juicy. A really drinkable & classy pinot. RRP:$37.00 https://rapaurasprings.co.nz/
Rapaura Springs ‘Bull Paddock Vineyard’ Sauvignon Blanc 2020 Dillon’s Point Marlborough NZ
Pale straw with a slight green / gold tinge, medium bodied. A vibrant nose full of citrus, passionfruit & stonefruit aromas then a background note of green herb / capsicum. The palate is full & juicy with intense flavours of lemons & limes, layers of texture and a lively acidity result in nice weight & mouthfeel – A long finish with some residual fruit sweetness. Stunning ! RRP:$33.00 https://rapaurasprings.co.nz/
Rapaura Springs ‘Rohe – Dillons Point’ Sauvignon Blanc 2020, Marlborough NZ.
Very pale almost clear with just a hint of green, medium bodied! Intensly fragrant nose of ripe tropical & stonefruit aromas & a slight green pepper savoury note. The palate is full of luscious tropicals & stone-fruit flavours, a lemon / lime citrus acidity & wet stony textural elements – full flavoured, zesty, layered. Very long grippy, juicy finish. Excellent! RRP:$25.00 https://rapaurasprings.co.nz/
Mélange Rougir ‘Complex Blush Blend’ 2020, Marlborough NZ.
A blend of 40% Gruner Veltliner, 20% Pinot Noir, 15% Chardonnay, 15% Gewurztraminer, 5% Pinot Gris & 5% Sauvignon Blanc.
Pretty pale pink in colour, a little cloudy haze, medium bodied. A shy-at -first nose with tropical fruit, red summer berries & fresh herb notes as it opened up. Bright summer berries & citrus flavours on the palate, a zingy wee acidity, a little saltiness / minerality. A fascinating, really tasty multi-variety rosé style wine – “Harrison is really finding his own style” – Mike Eaton. Only 240 bottles produced. RRP:$35.00 https://www.instagram.com/melangewines/
Mélange Du Champ – Co-Fermented Field Blend – 2020 Marlborough
Very pale orange in colour, lightly hazy & medium bodied wine. In the nose, fragrant aromas of sweet orange & lemon, with a whiff of turkish delight! Grippy pear-skin textured palate with juicy yet tart citrus fruit flavours, lively acidity, dry stoney finish. Interesting blend of varieties! My palate was slightly confused – but overall a really interesting wine – 43% Gewurztraminer 32% Sauvignon Blanc 25% Pinot Gris only 274 bottles produced. 12.5% abv RRP:$35.00 https://www.instagram.com/melangewines/
Mélange Blanc – 100% Skin fermented Sauvignon Blanc 2020, Marlborough NZ
Second vintage of this lo-fi wine from Harrison Eaton. Pale lemon-gold coloured wine, quite clear with a light oily viscosity. The nose is full of citrus, mandarin, grapefruit, stonefruit & green capsicum aromas. Deliciously bright & juicy palate with tart grapefruit / mandarin pith flavours, lemon / lime citrus acidity, wet-stone minerality & a little oak textures it nicely. Very long tart citrus finish – crunchy! Will soften with time. 13.5% Abv RRP:$30.00 https://www.instagram.com/melangewines/
Tiki Estate KORO Noble Riesling 2017 Waipara, NZ
Bright golden coloured wine with an oily viscosity. Intense nose of apricots, peach & burnt toffee aromas. Luscious palate filled to the brim with concentrated flavours of caramelized apricots, beeswax / honeycomb & enough limey acidity to balance the high residual sugar (157 g/l) – Succulent & Gorgeous! 12% Alc. RRP:$35.00 https://tikiwine.com/
OCTOBER
Tiki Estate KORO Chardonnay 2018 Hawke’s Bay NZ
Clear pale green-gold in colour, medium viscosity with stonefruit, lightly toasted oak & creamy yeasty aromas in the nose. A bright clean palate has ripe nectarine, peach & lemon flavours, with a gentle acidity, layers of fine smoky oak, and a dry crisp finish – nicely balanced & oh so delicious! RRP:$35.00 https://tikiwine.com/
Tiki Estate Single Vineyard Pinot Noir 2017, Waipara NZ
Deep cherry red in colour, lighter at the rim. A lovely earthiness in the nose is followed by fruit aromas of ripe cherry & dark plum. There’s lots of bright cherry & plum fruit on the palate too with fine tannins, subtle oak, soft acidity & warming alcohol all fully integrated & balanced – very elegant wine – fantastic value too – We should all be drinking more Waipara Pinot! RRP:$27.00 https://tikiwine.com/
Tiki Estate Single Vineyard Riesling 2018, Waipara NZ
Bright pale lemon-gold in colour with a vibrant nose of lemons, limes & waxy-honey aromas. The palate is so juicy & full of flavour with ripe citrus fruit, sweet honey with a zesty, limey acidity, finishes medium-dry & oh so delicious. I love a good riesling & would love to see this again in 3-5 years. Gorgeous! RRP:$25.00 https://tikiwine.com/
Tiki Estate Single Vineyard Chardonnay 2018 Hawke’s Bay NZ
Shiny light gold in colour, medium bodied with light viscosity. The nose is all butterscotch & toasted oak at first with yeasty brioche aromas to follow. Ripe peach & nectarine fruit flavours on the palate, smooth creamy textured with fine oak influence & a bright fresh acidity, bone dry finish… Nicely balanced wine. Excellent chardy at just RRP:$24.00 https://tikiwine.com/
Tiki Estate Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, 2018. Waipara, NZ
Bright straw gold with a pale green tinge. A fragrant nose of fresh tropical & stone-fruit, grapefruity citrus aromas. The palate is beautifully integrated with a lovely balance of citrus / gooseberry zing, sweet stonefruit / passionfruit flavours and layers of texture – quite juicy finish! Two year old Waipara Savvy – drinking beautifully! RRP:$25.00 https://tikiwine.com/
Tiki Estate Pinot Noir 2019, Waipara NZ
Bright cherry-red coloured wine, lighter at the rim. All enveloping nose of cherries, spice & a musty earthy note. Medium bodied with lots of dark cherry / plum fruit flavours, silky smooth tannins & fine oak influence on the palate. A very classy glass of Pinot from Waipara. RRP:$23.00 https://tikiwine.com/
Tiki Estate Rosé Pinot Noir 2020 Waipara NZ
Shiney bright-pink coloured wine with a fragrant nose of summer raspberry & strawberry aromas. Beautifully balanced palate with tart berry fruit flavours, some savoury herbal characters, ripe acidity and a long juicy finish. Delish! RRP:$20.00 https://tikiwine.com/
Tiki Estate Chardonnay 2019 Waipara NZ
Pale golden coloured wine, with a medium viscosity. The nose is full of ripe peach, melon & nectarine aromas. More ripe stonefruit & pineapple on the palate which is quite fruit-driven, bright acidity, a little creamy (malo) mouthfeel & subtle oak influence, results in a really drinkable chardy – a feed of snapper perhaps! RRP: $20.00 https://tikiwine.com/
Tiki Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2020, Marlborough NZ
Shiny pale straw coloured wine with a fresh nose of passionfruit, stonefruit, citrus & a whiff of sweaty armpit. Ripe, juicy palate with flavours of lemon / lime, green pepper, peach, a zingy acidity and a wee touch of sweetness at 5% RS to balance it all out. Nice drop – great value too. RRP:$18.00 https://tikiwine.com/
No.1 Family Estate Cuvee Virginie 2016
80% Chardonnay 20% Pinot Noir Marlborough NZ
Gorgeous bright golden coloured wine with tiny persistent bubbles – the nose is fresh & aromatic with crisp citrus, ripe peaches and warm toasty aromas. The palate is very crisp & fresh initially with a lemony citrus acidity & juicy stone-fruit flavours. It then softens with a creamy mouthfeel & a long fruity finish completes the experience. Just Stunning! RRP:$96.00 https://www.no1familyestate.co.nz/
Maui Wines Rosé – Pinot Noir / Pinot Gris 2020, Waipara NZ
Translucent, bright raspberry coloured wine with a fragrant nose of summer raspberries, melon & pear. Medium bodied with concentrated ripe berry-fruit flavours & sweetness on the palate, crisp acidity & silky textured with a mouth-watering juicy finish. Super summer sipper! RRP:$18.00 http://www.mauiwine.nz/
Maui Sauvignon Blanc 2020, Waipara NZ
Bright, clear pale straw with a hint of gold. Fresh herbaceous, tropical fruit & tart citrus aromas on the nose. Ripe passionfruit, melon & stonefruit flavours on the palate with lots of zesty grapefruity acidity, nicely structured & balanced. A nice grippy, juicy finish. RRP: $19.00
http://mauiwine.nz/
Blackenbrook Pinot Blanc 2020 Nelson NZ.
I don’t get to taste Pinot Blanc very often – this is gorgeous. Crystal-clear pale onion-skin coloured wine with a light viscosity / oilyness. Lovely fragrant nose of nashi pear & stonefruit – fresh and clean. Concentrated flavours of ripe pears, nectarines, citrus & spice on the palate, gentle acidity & a good whack of alcohol at 14.5% – a lovely pear-skin texture rounds it off as a beautifully balanced & elegant wine. RRP: $28.00 https://www.blackenbrook.co.nz/
Blackenbrook Pinot Noir Rosé 2020, Nelson NZ
Gorgeous dark pink / raspberry coloured wine with fresh raspberry & cranberry aromas on the nose. On the palate there’s ripe red currant & raspberry flavours, with a crisp & refreshing acidity & a long dry textured finish – nicely balanced & full of character – just in time for summer too! Lightly chilled, sitting on the deck, a red sunset – perfect! RRP: $25.00 https://www.blackenbrook.co.nz/
Blackenbrook Sauvignon Blanc 2020, Nelson NZ
Bright, clear, pale-straw coloured wine, with fresh tropical aromas of passionfruit, limes & green herb notes in the nose. The palate is clean & crisp with a zingy acidity & lime, green-apple & capsicum flavours. There’s a lovely chalky texture to the wine & a long juicy mouth-watering finish. A delicious taste of the 2020 Nelson vintage. Cheers! RRP: $21.00 https://www.blackenbrook.co.nz
The Crater Rim Viognier 2019 Waipara Valley, NZ.
Bright golden coloured wine with aromas of ripe apricot, citrus & peach with a hint of spice. Lovely concentrated palate of tart apricot kernal, orange pith, honey & spice, & a hint of ginger & creamy sweet vanilla flavours – I love apricots, & Viognier is as close as I can get in a wine to my fave stone-fruit flavours. This is Yum! RRP:$22.00 https://www.thecraterrim.co.nz/
Yealands L5 Single Block Sauvignon Blanc 2019, Marlborough NZ
Wow! What a nose, a whiff of ‘Awatere Armpit’ then vibrant citrus & savoury herbal aromas. The vibrancy follows on to the palate with ripe citrus, tart grapefruity acidity, layers of gritty / stoney texure & a fabulously long intense & juicy finish… Awarded 97 points and Best in Show at the Decanter World Wine awards 2020 – absolutely outstanding! RRP: $28.00 https://www.yealands.co.nz/
Desert Heart ‘Spencer Block’ Pinot Noir 2011, Central Otago, NZ
Medium cherry red coloured, paler at the rim, still bright & youthful. Fresh plum & cherry aromas predominant in the nose with a hint of spiced oak & some savoury herbal notes. Ripe cherry, plum & dark berry flavours, integrated fine tannins & ripe acidity all fill the palate out – juicy, mouth-watering flavours followed by a dry, balanced & elegant finish. Drinking beautifully. Wine provided by Eric and Michael Spencer who previously owned Desert Heart wines RRP: $40.00 https://spencerblockwines.co.nz/
Desert Heart ‘Spencer Block’ Pinot Noir 2009, Central Otago, NZ
Translucent cherry red coloured wine, lighter at the rim, no signs of age yet. An earthy, savoury nose at first underpinned with plum & cherry aromas. Dry spiced plum & cherry fruit flavours on the palate, slightly green at the back. Fine silky tannins & soft acidity, subtle oak and a long dry, slighty tart finish… May be just past it’s peak. RRP: $40.00 Wine provided by Eric and Michael Spencer who previously owned Desert Heart wines: https://spencerblockwines.co.nz/
Desert Heart Riesling 2010 Central Otago, NZ
I love a good aged riesling & this certainly is good one. Bright gold with a pale green tinge, oily viscocity. The nose is classic riesling with lemon & lime, honey, beeswax and a whiff of kerosene. The palate is ripe & full with juicy lime & lemon flavours & acidity, a little honey sweetness to balance and a grapefruity finish. It’s clean, crisp & drinking beautifully. RRP:$20.00
Wine provided by Eric and Michael Spencer who previously owned Desert Heart wines – https://spencerblockwines.co.nz/
Desert Heart MacKenzies Run Pinot Noir 2011, Central Otago NZ
Bright cherry red in colour, paler at the rim, medium bodied wine. Lovely nose of ripe cherry & dark berries with herbal aromas & subtle spicy oak. Concentrated fruit favours of cherry & dark berries on the palate, lovely silky tannins & soft acidity, integrated oak, nicely textured wine with a long, dry but quite fruity finish. Gorgeous drinking right now – I really enyoyed this. RRP: $40.00
Wine provided by Eric and Michael Spencer who previously owned Desert Heart wines – https://spencerblockwines.co.nz/
Desert Heart “MacKenzies Run” Pinot Noir 2008 Central Otago NZ
Dark cherry red coloured, slightly hazy, starting to go bricky at the rim. The nose is earthy & savoury with plum & cherry aromas. The palate starts with a bright acidity, flavours of cherry & plum with an element of sweet fruit still, fine tannins & nicely integated oak textures. Layered. complex and finishes long & dry. Drinking well at 12 years old. Wine provided by Eric and Michael Spencer who previously owned Desert Heart wines – https://spencerblockwines.co.nz/
Loveblock TEE Sauvignon Blanc 2019, Marlborough NZ.
Bright pale golden coloured wine with a light oily viscocity. Lovely fragrant florals, oranges & lemons, & just whiff of green herb / tomato stalk aromas in the nose. Gorgeous full & rounded palate, nicely textured with lush stone-fruit & lemony citrus flavours, fresh acidity & a crisp mouth-watering finish. Certified Organic, Vegan and Green tea used as a preservative instead of sulphur. RRP: $27.00 Find out more here: https://loveblockwine.com/
Spade Oak ‘The Prospect’ Pinot Gris 2019, Gisborne NZ
Soft gold to lemon coloured wine with a nice viscosity. Aromas of apple, pear with a little hint of nutty oak in the nose. The palate is generous and full with a lovely pear-skin texture and flavours of ripe pear, crisp apple & a lemony citrus acidity – creamy, juicy and very moreish. “A sumptuous blend of Gisborne Pinot Gris 457 and M2 clones from the Ashwood vineyard on Back Ormond Road made by Steve Voysey.” RRP: $28.00 https://www.spadeoak.co.nz/
SEPTEMBER
Spade Oak “Voysey” Sauvignon Blanc 2020, Gisborne,NZ
Pale straw with faint greenish hues in colour. The nose is full of tropical & citrus fruit aromas with a whiff of tomato stalk. The palate is crisp, fresh and full of lemon, mandarin, grapefruit and guava flavours, with a bright acidity, textured & slightly creamy mouthfeel. Lush, full-flavoured Gisborne Savvy. RRP: $18.50 https://www.spadeoak.co.nz/
No.1 Family Estate Cuvee Blanc de Blanc.
Bright clear golden in colour with a tiny, but very persistant bead. The nose smells of fresh bread & ripe stone fruit. The palate is full of ripe nectarine & peach flavours flavours, creamy & complex with a bright lemony acidity – just delicious! One of my favourite NZ methode / champagne styled bubbles… Blanc de Blanc, 100% Chardonnay, 2 years on lees. Cellar for a few years or just enjoy it right now! RRP: $36.00 https://www.no1familyestate.co.nz/
Rockburn Eight Barrels Pinot Noir 2019 Central Otago, NZ.
Translucent black cherry in colour with purple hues, paler at the rim. On the nose there’s dark blackberry & plum fruit aromas with savoury, mushroom, earth & subtle oak. The palate is full, rich & balanced with concentrated dark fruit flavours, velvety tannins, a mouth-watering acidity all in unison. It’s bone dry, with a long persistent finish. Another outstanding wine from Rockburn. Cheers, Malcolm and Team! RRP: $96.00 https://www.rockburn.co.nz/
Rockburn Eleven Barrels Pinot Noir 2019, Central Otago, NZ
Deep cherry coloured wine, all the way to the rim. A fragrant nose of ripe dark cherry, black plum and wild herbal aromas fill the senses. An incredibly smooth palate with rich flavours of cherry, plum, spice and toasty oak. Fine silky tannins, soft integrated acidity, with layers of texture and complexity. Beautiful, elegant balanced wine that finishes long and full of character – fabulous now but still so young – Just stunning! RRP:$96.00 https://www.rockburn.co.nz/
Mount Riley Chardonnay 2019 Marlborough NZ
Clear pale lemon in colour, lighter bodied wine. Lovely nose of nectarine, peaches, lemon citrus, & a little smokey oak. Ripe peach and lemon fruit flavours on the palate, with bright acidity and gently textured with subtle oak and a slightly creamy mouthfeel. Great value Marlborough Chardonnay. RRP:$15.00 https://mountriley.co.nz/
Mount Riley Sauvignon Blanc 2020 Marlborough NZ
Pale straw coloured wine with a light green tinge. Fresh tropical nose with aromas of passionfruit, green herb and citrus. Beautiful palate with ripe stonefruit, grapefruit and lemon / lime flavours, crisp acidity and a long refreshing juicy finish. Loving the 2020 Savs so far! Recommend you try this one. RRP:$15.00 https://mountrileyshop.co.nz/
Mount Brown ‘Wild River’ Pinot Noir 2018, North Canterbury NZ
Pale translucent raspberry – cherry in colour – lighter style – fragrant nose of cherry, plum and spice. The palate is fresh and balanced with ripe red berry, plum and spice flavours, fine tannins, bright acidity and a long fresh berry focused finish. Nice easy drinking – often under $15 at the supermarket. RRP:$24.00 https://www.mountbrown.co.nz/
Rapaura Springs Sauvignon Blanc 2020 Marlborough NZ
Pale straw coloured with pale green hues. Vibrant nose of tropical fruit, capsicum and green herb aromas. Juicy ripe palate full of tart gooseberry, tropical, lemon & lime flavours, crisp acidity and a long moreish finish – always a consistently good Marlborough Savvy. RRP:$14.00 https://rapaurasprings.co.nz/
AUGUST
Tankersley Estate Pinot Noir 2015 Central Otago NZ
Deep purple to dark cherry in colour, medium bodied, slightly translucent. The nose is quite savoury, with mushroom, green herb then dark berry & plum aromas. Nice grippy tannins on the palate & fine oak, textured and layered with juicy plum & cherry fruit flavours, intense, full flavoured with a long dry finish. RRP: $35.00 https://www.tankersleyestate.co.nz/
Tankersley Estate Pinot Rosé 2019 Central Otago NZ
Medium bodied wine with a vibrant “raspberry cordial” colour and great ‘legs’. The nose is full of red berry & cherry aromas with a tiny whiff of green herb. Fresh, clean & balanced palate with red berry, red currant & cherry flavours, slightly tart acidity & a really long juicy finish. Grapes were hand picked & whole bunch pressed resulting in the concentrated colour & flavour. RRP: $25.00
https://www.tankersleyestate.co.nz/
Tankersley Estate Pinot Noir 2014, Central Otago NZ
A medium bodied wine, dark cherry to indigo in colour with a lighter rim, just starting to show a little age. Very savoury gamey nose, herbal & earthy with soft plum & cherry fruit aromas & nutty oak. Rich dark berry, cherry & plum fruit flavours on the palate, dusty tannins, a slight green-stalk / tart acidity on a medium length finish. Drinking nicely now but could go another couple of years! A very nice match with Venison. Mmmm! RRP: $35.00 https://www.tankersleyestate.co.nz/
Otuwhero Estate OTU Merlot Rose 2020, Hawke’s Bay, NZ
Clear & bright watermelon pink in colour. Lots of fresh summer berry aromas & candyfloss in the nose. Lovely juicy raspberry and cherry flavours with a little tart acidity & fine tannins giving it some grippiness /texture – a nice burst of ripe red fruit on the finish – Yum – just in time for spring & summer quaffing on the deck. RRP: $20.00 https://www.otuwine.com/
Otuwhero Estate OTU Pinot Gris 2020 Marlborough, NZ
Pale onion-skin coloured wine with light viscosity. Fresh clean nose of sweet pears & floral notes. Lovely pear-skin textured palate with ripe stone-fruit & pear flavours, a hint of spice and a nice citrus acidity gets the juices flowing. Long sweet finish – very moreish! Another beautifully made wine from Otuwhero’s newly rebranded range. Delish! RRP:$20.00 https://www.otuwine.com/
Otuwhero Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2020 Marlborough, NZ.
Crystal clear, very pale coloured wine with a green tinge. Immediately in the nose are grassy, gooseberry and citrus notes, it’s fresh and lively and quite intense. The palate is crisp & juicy, filled with lemon and lime citrus flavours, and textured like biting into a granny-smith apple. Long mouthwatering finish. My first 2020 Sauvignon Blanc to review & what a fabulous start to the Marlborough vintage. RRP: $20.00 https://www.otuwine.com/
Matawhero Irwin Chardonnay 2018 Gisborne NZ.
Deep golden coloured wine, medium bodied / viscosity. Massive nose of juicy peach & nectarine aromas, heaps of toasty oak & sweet butterscotch too. Wonderfully rounded & balanced palate with peach & nectarine flavours, a grape-fruity acidity, nicely integrated oak & a creamy mouthfeel. Very long dry finish full of flavour and texture. Wonderful tribute to both Bill and Denis Irwin – Bottle no.1581. RRP: $60.00 https://matawhero.co.nz/
McGeorge Chardonnay 2018 Waipara NZ
Pale lemon gold in colour with a light oily viscosity. Peach, nectarine & a whiff of gunsmoke in the nose. Rich, intensely fruit-driven palate with excellent toasty oak influence, fine acidity, textured & full bodied with a long, warming, dry finish. A gorgeous complex wine with huge character. RRP:$29.00 https://mcgeorgewine.co.nz/
The Winemaker’s Wife Riesling 2018 Waipara NZ
Bright & shiny pale lemon / straw in colour with green highlights. Fragrant citrus blossom, tangelo and honey aromas in the nose. A luscious palate with bright acidity, yummy citrus, green apple & honey flavours. Nicely textured, long delicious mouth-watering finish. A lovely example of Riesling from North Canterbury! RRP: $22.00 https://www.thewinemakerswife.co.nz/
The Winemaker’s Wife Pinot Rose 2019, Waipara NZ
Pale strawberry coloured with copper hues. A whiff of raspberry, strawberry and candyfloss in the nose. Immediately bright and succulent on the palate with fresh acidity, red berry and tart cherry flavours, long dry finish. A delight! RRP:$22.00 https://www.thewinemakerswife.co.nz/
The Winemaker’s Wife Chardonnay 2018 Waipara NZ.
Bright lemon-gold in colour, medium bodied with a delightful nose of ripe peach, melon and nutty oak aromas. The palate is full flavoured, fresh & fruity, creamy, nutty and rounded out with a lovely crisp acidity that lingers on into the finish. Textured, layered and very moreish. RRP:$25.00 https://www.thewinemakerswife.co.nz/
JULY
27Seconds Pinot Noir 2018 North Canterbury NZ
Medium cherry coloured wine, lighter at the rim. Enticing nose of ripe cherry, berry, spice & earthy notes. On the palate this is a grippy, textured wine, full of cherry & berry fruit flavours underpinned with earth & spice, chalky tannins, integrated acidity, spicy oak, very long finish… I love this style of grunty “in your face Pinot Noir” Exceptional value too. RRP:24.00 https://27seconds.co.nz
27Seconds Rosé – Syrah / Pinot Gris 2019, North Canterbury NZ
Bright & clear light copper-coloured wine with fresh floral and strawberry notes in the nose. Fresh acidity and finely textured palate with concentrated flavours of spiced strawberries, and savoury notes, nice creamy palate weight, dry with a long juicy finish. RRP: $19.00
https://27seconds.co.nz
27Seconds Riesling 2019, North Canterbury NZ.
Very pale coloured with a slight green tinge. An aromatic wine with hints of citrus, tangelo and honeyed stone-fruit in the nose. Delicious medium sweet palate with a crisp limey acidity, yummy lasting finish leaves you wanting more, and some creamy blue cheese! 10% Alc, RRP:$18.00 https://27seconds.co.nz
27Seconds Pinot Gris 2019, North Canterbury NZ
Pale golden in colour, light oily viscosity. Lovely lush nose of sweet pears and spice. Big rounded palate of succulent fruit flavours, honeyed pear, stone-fruit, spice. Beautifully textured, soft acidity, smooth long finish. Gorgeous! RRP: $21.00 https://27seconds.co.nz
27seconds 2019 Sauvignon Blanc
Pale straw in colour with a lemon tinge. Fresh tropical nose with stone-fruit and lime aromas – succulent lemon, lime and passion-fruit flavours on the palate with lovely crisp acidity and a long juicy finish – fruity, mouth-filling and quite delicious. https://27seconds.co.nz
Yealands Estate Single Vineyard Awatere Sauvignon Blanc 2019 Marlborough NZ
Pale straw coloured, bright with pale green highlights. A lovely fragrant tropical fruit nose with a hint of grassy green herb and lime citrus. Luscious fruit-driven palate with sweet juicy lemon and lime flavours, lively crisp acidity, and wet greywacke stone textures. Long flavourful finish – Refreshing, crisp, juicy and succulent! RRP:$25.00 https://www.yealands.co.nz/
JUNE
Mills Reef Reserve Merlot 2018, Hawke’s Bay, NZ
Deep indigo – purple in colour, medium – full bodied. Lovely plums, blackberry & spice in the nose. A balanced palate with flavours of plums, berries and a hint of chocolate, spice, earth. Layers of texture, fine acidity, velvety tannins & fine oak finish persistently long & dry. Smooth & refined. RRP: $25.00 https://www.wineportfolio.co.nz/our_brands/mills-reef/
Mills Reef Reserve Pinot Noir 2019, Marlborough, NZ
Purple to black cherry coloured with a paler rim, medium bodied. Cherry & dark berry aromas in the nose with cherry, dark berries, plum & savoury flavours on the palate. Soft acidity and fine powdery tannins lead into a dry fruity finish. Still young but already quite elegant! RRP: $25.00 https://www.wineportfolio.co.nz/our_brands/mills-reef/
Mills Reef Reserve Merlot Malbec 2018, Hawke’s Bay NZ
Dark cherry red to purple in colour, full bodied wine with a nose of dark berry fruit aromas, with earth & leather notes. Juicy dark berry fruit on the palate with dusty tannins and ripe acidity, a ittle spice, fine oak influence – a lovely mouth-filling textured wine with a long fruity finish. Was great just sitting, sipping by the fire! RRP:$25.00 https://www.wineportfolio.co.nz/our_brands/mills-reef/
Mills Reef Reserve Syrah 2018, Hawke’s Bay NZ
Deep cherry red in colour, lighter at the rim. Full bodied with aromas of ripe dark berries, pepper & subtle oak / spice influence. Nicely textured palate with a burst of dark berry fruit, tight acidity, savoury-meaty flavours, chalky tannins and a long dry finish. Was delicious paired with a med / rare Scotch Fillet steak, baked spud with garlic butter and green beans. Perfect! RRP: $25.00
https://www.wineportfolio.co.nz/our_brands/mills-reef/
The Hunting Lodge “Crowd Blend – White Mischief” 2019 Marlborough NZ
Very interesting blend Pinot Gris, Albarino & Riesling with a little bit of everything thrown in by Pete Turner, Wine Maker. Hand harvested fruit, wild yeast, stainless & French oak fermentation & aging, 4 months on lees. Bright lemon – lime in colour with a vibrant nose of stone-fruit, citrus and a savoury herb note. Lovely grippy palate with juicy citrus and green apple fruit flavours, zesty acidity and 9gms residual sugar all melded into a wonderfully textured & balanced wine with a long
refreshing finish. RRP: $30.00 https://www.thehuntinglodge.com/
Drummond Farm Estate Pinot Noir 2017, Martinborough NZ.
Medium bodied, cherry red in colour with a light haze due to no filtering / fining. Fragrant nose with red berry, cherry, savoury earthy notes & a hint of spice. Ripe red cherry & berry flavours on the palate, nicely textured with well integrated tannins, acidity & oak. Quite an elegant wine and at just over 30 bucks is an absolute bargain. RRP: $31.00 https://www.drummondfarm.land
Drummond Farm Pinot Gris 2018, Martinborough, NZ
Straw coloured with a pale green tinge, lighter bodied, with a gentle nose of spice, apple & citrus. Green apple, pear & lemon flavours on the palate, with crisp acidity & nice textural elements from barrel ferment. Long tasty finish and at 9.5% abv very easy to drink. Lovely change from those big oily PGs. RRP: $24.00 https://www.drummondfarm.land
Drummond Farm ‘Back Block’ Pinot Noir 2017. Martinborough NZ
Light cherry red in colour with a faint haze from no fining / filtering. Raspberries, earthy, herbal & spice notes in the nose. Lighter bodied wine with fresh dark berry & cherry flavours, subtle oak , fine chalky tannins, ripe acidity and a long dry ‘front of mouth’ finish – still a baby? Enjoy now or pop away for another year to two. RRP: $29.00 https:/www.drummondfarm.land/
Selaks 1934 Merlot 2017 Hawke’s Bay NZ.
Deep cherry red in colour – translucent, medium bodied. Yummy plums & blackberry fruit aromas in the nose with a hint of spiced oak. Rich juicy fruit flavours with silky-smooth tannins, taught acidity on the palate – nicely textured wine, with a long satisfying finish – Just in time for hearty winter casserole. RRP: $22.00 https://www.selaks.co.nz/
Selaks 1934 Chardonnay 2019, Hawke’s Bay NZ
Shiny golden coloured, medium bodied wine. Stone & tropical fruit with a whiff of toasty oak in the nose. Crisp juicy palate with ripe peach and pineapple flavours, grapefruity acidity, nicely textured, subtle oak influence, concentrated long finish. RRP: $17.00 https://www.selaks.co.nz/
Selaks 1934 Rosé Hawke’s Bay 2019.
Merlot 67% with 29% Sav blanc & a splash each of Pinot Gris, Malbec, Cab Sav and Cab Franc. Pretty deep pink in colour with copper hues, lighter bodied. Fragrant nose with summer berries, citrus and melon notes. Crisp fresh palate with more ripe summer berries, zingy citrus acidity & a lovely long dry finish. Very moreish! Tasted at room temperature. RRP $17.00 https://www.selaks.co.nz/
MAY
Selaks 1934 Sauvignon Blanc 2019, Hawke’s Bay NZ.
First in a new range from Selaks – Pale straw with a green tinge. Fresh nose of tropical fruit and citrus notes. Juicy palate with sweet stone-fruit and tropical flavours underpinned with crisp acidity and a nice limey citrus bite to finish. Brilliant value too. RRP: $17.00
https://www.selaks.co.nz/
Matawhero ‘Single Vineyard’ Sauvignon Blanc 2019, Gisborne NZ
Pale straw coloured wine with golden hues, tropical fruit aromas and a hint of green herb (not grassy) in the nose. Lovely fruity palate of mango, peach and passion-fruit flavours with a tart grapefruity acidity. Mouth-filling with good flavour, texture and a long dry finish. A nice subtle change from those Marlborough savvies we all love. Recommend you grab a bottle and try this. RRP:$24.00 https://matawhero.co.nz/
Te Awanga Estate “Trademark” Chardonnay, 2018 Hawke’s Bay, NZ
Pale lemon-straw in colour with pale green hues. Gun smoke, stone-fruit, brioche and vanilla notes in the nose. Ripe peach, nectarine and grapefruit flavours, nice fresh acidity, softened by a little M/F creaminess on the palate, some fine oak / lees gives textural complexity and a lovely dry, slightly-tart long finish – a stunner! RRP: $70.00 https://teawangaestate.co.nz/
Pask “Trilliant” Gimblett Gravels Small Batch Blend 2016 Hawke’s Bay, NZ
49% Merlot,26% Cabernet, 25% Malbec
Bright cherry red in colour lighter at the rim. Immediate notes of plum & black berry fruit aromas, underpinned with savoury / spice & subtle oak in the nose. Nicely integrated palate of powdery tannins, grippy acidity, ripe fruit flavours & fine oak influence – well balanced with a long elegant finish. RRP: $35.00 https://www.pask.co.nz/
Declaration Gimblett Gravels Syrah 2014 Hawke’s Bay NZ
Medium bodied, deep purple to black cherry in colour. Wonderful nose of ripe black berries, savoury – earthy notes mixed spices and pepper. Lashings of grippy tannins and fine oak textures on the palate, with dark plum fruit flavours, spice & a hint of gamey-ness? Powerful, weighty with a long lasting dry, meaty finish! Drinking beautifully at 6 years old. RRP:$50.00 https://www.pask.co.nz
Pask Declaration Gimblett Gravels Chardonnay 2016 Hawke’s Bay NZ
Bright lemon to gold in colour. Medium bodied with light viscosity. Fresh stone-fruit, citrus, toasted oak & spice notes in the nose. Ripe stone-fruit flavours, nectarines & grapefruit, just a hint of creaminess, subtle oak, medium acidity, complex, nutty palate with a long dry finish. Excellent. RRP:$40.00 https://www.pask.co.nz
Jackson Estate ‘Gum Emperor’ Single Vineyard Pinot Noir 2013, Marlborough NZ.
Medium bodied wine, deep magenta to cherry red in colour (no signs of aging.) The nose is spicy & aromatic with black berry fruit & savoury aromas. Wonderfully opulent palate with ripe dark plum & cherry fruit, spicy, earthy, silky tannins, subtle fine oak and a long lasting complex finish. Aging beautifully. RRP:$48.00 https://www.jacksonestate.co.nz/
Jackson Estate ‘Vintage Widow’ Pinot Noir 2016, Marlborough NZ
Bright translucent cherry red in colour, paler at the rim. Fragrant, cherry, dark berries and a hint of spicy oak on the nose. Lighter style / body with more dark fruit flavours and spice, the palate packs a punch with nice grippy tannins and ripe acidity, lots of layers and character – finishes long and dry! Delish! RRP:$40.00 https://www.jacksonestate.co.nz
Jackson Estate Stich Sauvignon Blanc 2019 Marlborough NZ
Light straw with a hint of lime / gold in colour. Medium bodied with a fresh fruity nose of peach, nectarine and lemon citrus notes. Immediate ripe stone-fruit sweetness on the palate followed by a refreshing grapefruity acidity, medium to dry with a nice “like licking a wet stone” texture and a delicious juicy finish. Great value at RRP:$21.00 https://www.jacksonestate.co.nz/
St Pauli Vineyard Pinot Noir 2019, Nelson Moutere NZ
Lighter red to dark cherry in colour. Fragrant nose with cherry, plum and savoury notes. Lovely rounded and soft palate with powdery tannins, fine oak influence, bright dark cherry and plum flavours, a savoury note of olive and green stalk, bright acidity and a long juicy finish. RRP:$35.00 https://www.stpauli.co.nz/
St Pauli Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2019 Nelson Moutere NZ
Bright light straw coloured. Loads of lime citrus, green apples & ripe stonefruit aromas in the nose. Lovely balanced palate with juicy apple and nectarine flavours, lemon / lime acidity and a long refreshing finish. Possibly my first ever Moutere grown Sauvignon Blanc – I like it a lot – Yummy! RRP:$22.00 https://www.stpauli.co.nz/
APRIL
St Pauli Vineyard Chardonnay 2019 Nelson Moutere NZ
Straw coloured with pale gold-lemon hues. Fresh nose with stone-fruit, melon and subtle toasty oak notes. Full creamy palate with ripe nectarine and peach flavours, a grapefruity citrus element, tight acidity, a hint of minerality and a good dollop of alcohol warmth. A long dry very more-ish finish. Most enjoyable! RRP: $28.00
St Pauli Vineyard Pinot Gris 2019, Nelson Moutere NZ.
Pale straw coloured with golden hues. Light oiliness / viscosity. Fragrant nose with spiced apple, pear & stone-fruit aromas. Lovely full palate with rich pear, apple and some citrus pith, ginger spicy element, crisp acidity and a nice textural mouthfeel. Long juicy finish. RRP:$22.00 https://www.stpauli.co.nz/
Terrace Edge St Laurent 2018, North Canterbury NZ
Bright translucent cherry red in colour. Lovely wild floral notes, cherry, ripe plum and a slight nuttiness in the nose. Intensely flavoured palate with ripe black fruit & plum flavours, nice grippy tannins, subtle oak, nicely balanced with great length & depth. Like a Pinot Noir only Grunty! RRP: $40.00 https://terraceedge.co.nz/
No. 1 Family Estate “Assemble” Chardonnay / Pinot Noir / Pinot Meunier, NV Marlborough NZ
Medium gold in colour, short mousse on pouring but a very fine persistant bead. Fresh oven baked bread / yeasty nose with ripe peach, nectarine and citrus. Fresh crisp palate with flavours of ripe stonefruit & lemons, nicely textured, juicy moreish with a long finish – quite elegant and certainly great value NZ Bubbles! Highly recommended. RRP $32.00 https://www.no1familyestate.co.nz/
Villa Maria Icon Series, Keltern Vineyard Chardonnay 2018 Hawkes Bay – Bridge Pa Triangle NZ.
There’s a first time for everything – this my first ever taste of the Keltern! Crystal-clear pale straw to lemon in colour with hints of lime green. Wonderfully inviting nose of toasty oak, ripe stone-fruit & flinty / smokey / pencil shaving notes. Huge mouthfilling, complex, juicy palate with rich nectarine & sweet peach fruit flavours, fine oak texture, bright acidity, all beautifully integrated into one very special wine. Thanks to Nic Picone for the sample – just stunning! RRP $79.00 https://www.villamaria.co.nz/
Esk Valley, Gimblett Gravels, Winemakers Reserve 2018, Hawkes Bay, NZ
Cabernet Sauvignon 38% Merlot 28% Malbec 19% Cabernet Franc 15% – Dark cherry red to beetroot in colour, quite opaque. Fragrant complex sweet & savoury nose with garden herb, ripe plum and subtle oak aromas. A full bodied palate with punch, layers of dark plum and berry fruit, savoury forest floor, black olive, herbal flavours – textural, powdery tannins, fresh acidity, dry, grippy, long finish – very elegant and satisfying – many years left in this fabulous Bordeaux style red blend. Wonderful! RRP: $70.00 https://www.eskvalley.co.nz/
Esk Valley Gimblett Gravels Merlot / Cab Sav / Malbec 2018 Hawkes Bay NZ
Deep cherry to purple in colour, slightly translucent. Lots of black berry, cherry and green herb notes in the nose. Medium weight palate with ripe dark berry fruit & plum flavours, powdery tannins, a little greenstalk acidity and subtle oak influence. Nicely balanced long finish. RRP:$20.00 https://www.eskvalley.co.nz/
Matahiwi Estate Brut Rosé NV (Pinot Noir 65% Chard 35%) Wairarapa NZ
Pale salmon pink in colour, fine fluffy mousse, melon and berry aromas in the nose with a whiff of yeastiness. Bright crisp palate with summer raspberry flavours, a creamy mouthfeel and fresh lemony acidity. Full flavoured wine, with a juicy dry finish! Delish! RRP: $29.00 https://matahiwi.co.nz/
Matahiwi Estate “Wild Holly” Pinot Noir, 2019 Wairarapa, NZ
Dense Inky purple – indigo in colour. Powerful nose with dark plum, black berrys, chocolate and earthy, green-herb notes. Weighty textured palate with grippy tannins, dark berry fruit flavours, spice & savoury characters, bright acidity and a long bone-dry finish. It’s wild all right, Big and Bold! RRP:$46.00 https://matahiwi.co.nz/
Matahiwi Estate ‘Holly’ South Series, Pinot Noir 2018, Wairarapa NZ.
Great colour, bright, translucent cherry red. A fragrant spiced nose with dark berry, raspberry and plum notes. Ripe fruity palate with subtle oak textures, slight green-stalk tannins and some zesty acidity still present. Ripe fruit forward finish. Needs a bit longer to integrate / mature but still a lovely drop! RRP: $46.00 https://matahiwi.co.nz/
Matahiwi Estate ‘Holly’ – South Series Chardonnay 2018 Wairarapa NZ
Bright golden yellow coloured wine – gorgeous nose with peach & nectarine fruit aromas & freshly buttered toastiness. Lovely creamy palate with more luscious stonefruit, slighty grapefruity acidity, nicely textured oak influence, dry with a long juicy finish. Love to see this in 2 more years RRP:$34.00 https://matahiwi.co.nz/
Yealands Riesling 2019 Marlborough NZ
Bright straw gold in colour nice viscocity medium bodied wine. Lifted lemon and lime aromas with a floral, honeysuckle note. Intense palate of lemon, lime and sweet honey flavours, crisp bright acidity and a juicy long dry finish. Love this style – dry, crisp, moreish! RRP:$16.00 https://www.yealands.co.nz/
Giesen Estate 0% Alcohol Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough NZ
Pale lemon in colour with a pale green tinge, light bodied. Soft grassy nose with a hint of tropical fruit, quite shy! Bright citrus acidity and lemon flavours, dry short finish – for me it lacks body and depth. It’s more like a lemon drink than a wine, refreshing for those who prefer no / low alcohol beverages. I think my palate has been spoilt by all the great savvies out there! Sorry about that! RRP: $16.00
https://giesen.co.nz/
Yealands Baby Doll Rosé 2019 Marlborough NZ
Interesting blend with 67% Pinot Gris, 3% Gewurtraminer, 1% Pinot Noir (Marlb) & 29% Merlot (HB) Pale watermelon pink with copper hues in colour. Fragrant nose of ripe red berries, pear and citrus. Lovely palate of ripe strawberries, sweet spice, and the grip / mouthfeel of gris, pear skin texure. Bright citrus acidity and nice long flavourful finish. Gorgeous at a RRP:$18.00 https://www.babydollwines.co.nz/
Yealands Pinot Rose 2019 Marlborough NZ
Pale watermelon blush in colour. Lovely lifted nose of strawberries with a creamy note. Tight acidity gives the palate a wee bit of bite, with juicy strawberry and raspberry fruit flavours filling it out – medium finish. Serve just ever so lightly chilled. RRP:$16.00
https://www.yealands.co.nz/
MARCH
Yealands Estate Single Vineyard Awatere Sauvignon Blanc 2019 Marlborough NZ
Very pale straw coloured, bright with pale green highlights. A lovely fragrant tropical fruit nose with a hint of grassy green herband lime. Quite a luscious fruit-driven palate with sweet juicy lemon / lime citrus flavours, bright lively acidity, and wet stone textures / minerality. Lovely long finish – Refreshing and delish! RRP:$25.00 https://www.yealands.co.nz/
Yealands Estate Reserve Awatere Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2019, Marlborough NZ
Shiny pale straw in colour. Has a vibrant nose of green herb – cut grass, tropical fruit and a lemony lime citrus bursting forth. Lovely tart citrusy palate with intense fruit flavours, grippy acidity and a long mouth watering / puckering finish! Classic Awatere Savvy RRP:$19.00
https://www.yealands.co.nz/
Mills Reef Elspbeth Gimblett Gravels Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 Hawkes Bay NZ
Deep black cherry in colour with red highlights. Jammy blackberry / blackcurrent nose with cherry, vanilla & spice. Full bodied with a big rounded palate of dark fruit flavours, some choccy and slight green stalk flavours, smooth tannins with a wee acidity bite still present, complex, textured with a long warming finish. Excellent winter sip, by an open fire with a hot beef casserole (Wish I had waited now.) RRP:$50.00 https://www.wineportfolio.co.nz/our_brands/mills-reef/
Mills Reef Reserve Gimblett Gravels Cabernet / Merlot 2018 Hawkes Bay NZ
Deep purple to indigo in colour, with concentrated dark berry, plum & spice in the nose. A very full palate layered with black current, plum and dark berry flavours, slightly grippy tannins, fresh acidity, a subtle dash of oak, and a long juicy mouth-filling finish – a little young but drinking beautifully right now, and amazing value for a NZ Bordeaux style Hawke’s Bay wine. RRP $25.00 https://www.wineportfolio.co.nz/our_brands/mills-reef/
Matawhero Irwin Chardonnay 2017 Gisborne NZ
Shiny bright golden coloured medium bodied wine, with a fragrant nose of ripe peach, apricot and sweet rock melon. Beautifully integrated palate driven by juicy stone-fruit flavours & underpinned with fine toasty oak influence, a gentle refreshing acidity and persistant finish – not a Big Buttery Chardonnay but a beautifully classic expression of a top quality Gisborne chardonnay – Just Stunning! RRP:$60.00 https://matawhero.co.nz/
Matawhero Church House Barrel Fermented Chardonnay, 2018 Gisborne NZ
Deeper yellow gold in colour, lime hints , lovely oily viscosity. Intense nose of rich peach, nectarine, baked bread & a whiff of oak. Weighty rounded palate with ripe stonefruit, creamy, butterscotch, vanilla, subtle grapefruity acidity, layers of texture and complexity – very long finish. Gorgeous Chardonnay – Amazing value! RRP:$30.00 https://matawhero.co.nz/
Matawhero Single Vineyard Chardonnay 2019 Gisborne NZ
Bright & clear, medium weight wine, soft lemon coloured with golden hues. Clean fruity nose with ripe stonefruit, and butterscotch notes. More lush stonefruit on the palate with a bright acidity, balanced by a lovely creaminess from 100% M/F, subtle oak textures. A beautifully made classic Gisborne chardy for under 25 bucks? Nice! RRP:$23.00 https://matawhero.co.nz/
Eva Pemper Sauvignon Blanc 2019 Marlborough NZ
Clear, bright pale straw in colour. Fragrant fruity nose with passionfruit, pineapple and a slight green herb note. Beautifully rounded wine on the palate with crisp lemony citrus acidity, concentrated & juicy tropical fruit flavours, and a grippy, stoney mouthfeel. Incredibly long textural finish – classic Marlborough Savvy! RRP:$25.00 https://epwines.nz/
Three Miners ‘Warden’s Court’ Pinot Noir 2018, Central Otago NZ
Medium bodied wine, bright cherry red in colour, lighter at the rim. The nose is full of red summer berries, cherry & a hint of oak! Red berries, black currant and plum flavours on the palate, ripe acidity, and dusty tannins. Lovely long fruity / grippy finish. Ripe and scrummy! RRP: $42.00 https://threeminers.com/
Three Miners “Miner’s Right” Pinot Gris 2019, Central Otago, NZ
Pale staw / onion skin in colour. Pear, green apple & citrus notes in the nose. Medium bodied, lovely balance of fresh stone-fruit, pear and spice flavours, with a grapefruity acidity, hint of oak. Complex, layered & textural wine. Love it! RRP: $28.00 https://threeminers.com/
Three Miners ‘Rocker Box’ Pinot Noir Rose 2019 Central Otago NZ
Pretty watermelon pink coloured wine with a lovely fragrant nose of sweet summer berries, ripe stone-fruit and just the faintest hint of spice. The palate exudes raspberry, nectarine, peach and spice flavours, crisp acidity and a juicy but dry finish – Summer’s over but this is perfect for Autumn evening sipping. RRP:$28.00 https://threeminers.com/
Three Miners ‘Earnscleugh’ Herringbone Riesling 2017 Central Otago, NZ.
Very pale with green gold hints in colour – fragrant citrus blossom notes & tropical fruit in the nose. Juicy palate of vibrant lemon-lime & tart grapefruity flavours, fresh acidity and a hint of honey sweetness in the finish. Drinking beautifully – nice match for a Thai green curry! RRP:$25.00 https://threeminers.com/
Hunter’s Wines Offshoot Pinot Noir 2019 Marlborough NZ
Another new wine release from James McDonald – Fruit from Hunters’ homeblock, hand picked, partially destemmed, open top fermenter, 40% whole clusters, only 3 months in barrel – Bright cherry red in colour with a nose of savoury vege / beetroot, berry & cherry aromas. Fresh, young, lively & fruit-forward wine, subtle oak, soft tannins, a little greenstalk character, lovely finish. Something new and a little different. Nice! RRP:$25.00 https://hunters.co.nz/
Hunter’s Wines “Home Block” Sauvignon Blanc 2019, Marlborough NZ
First release of Hunter’s new icon Savvy – 25 year old vines, low cropped, hand picked, whole bunch pressed, 10% in oak & 5 months on lees. Shiny bright pale straw in colour. Fresh capsicum, citrus & savoury herbal notes in the nose. Juicy & crisp palate with tart lemon-lime acidity, ripe stone-fruit, weighty mouthfeel, textured and just damn delicious! RRP: $30.00 https://hunters.co.nz/
Mills Reef Reserve Pinot Noir 2017 Marlborough NZ
Deep raspberry / cherry coloured in the glass, light to medium bodied. Herbal – savoury notes in the nose with cherry and dark berry aromas. Softer tannins and oak textured palate, beautifully balanced with ripe dark berries, savoury earth and a hint of spiciness leading into a long dry finish. RRP:$25.00 https://www.wineportfolio.co.nz/our_brands/mills-reef/
FEBRUARY
Mills Reef ‘Elspeth’ – Gimblett Gravels Chardonnay 2017 Hawkes Bay NZ
Gorgeous golden yellow in colour, bright and shiny. Luscious nose of peach and nectarine stonefruit, gunsmoke and nutty oak. Rich creamy palate with lovely tart citrus acidity, full flavours of peach and apricot kernal, spice and oak influence. Textured, layered and complex wine with a long juicy finish. I never joined the ABC crowd! This is a great Chardonnay! RRP:$40.00
https://www.wineportfolio.co.nz/our_brands/mills-reef/
Dancing Petrel Sparkles Viognier 2019 Northland NZ
My first ever taste of a sparkling Viognier from the far north of NZ Pale straw with a pale lemon tinge and a soft mousse. Pear and apricot notes in the nose leading into a tight dry palate of ripe apricot and citrus, a hint of creamy textural elemants and juicy dry finish. Different but quite delicious. RRP:$24.00 https://dancingpetrel.co.nz/
Dancing Petrel Pinot Gris 2019 Northland NZ
Shiny pale golden in colour / slight oily viscocity. Ripe apple and stonefruit notes with hint of spice in the nose. Lovely warm palate with texture with apricot and spiced apple flavours, slightly tart citrus acidity, long moreish finish. Fresh and tasty! RRP:$22.00
https://dancingpetrel.co.nz/
Dancing Petrel Rosé – Syrah / Cab Franc 2019, Northland NZ
Deep Watermelon pink coloured wine with copper hues. Ripe summer berries and floral notes in the nose. Lovely balanced palate of ripe strawberries, raspberries and spice with a bright acidity and fine tannins adding structure. Long mouth-filling finish. Nice accompaniment to our spicy tomato pasta dish. Delish! RRP:$22.00 https://dancingpetrel.co.nz/
Dancing Petrel ‘Oaked’ Viognier 2018, Northland NZ
Shiny yellow – gold in colour medium bodied wine. Spiced apricot, peach and vanilla notes in the nose, with juicy ripe stonefruit, pear and lemon-lime citrus flavours on the palate. Quite well integrated, balanced and finishes long with a tangy apricot acidity. I need to try more Viognier! RRP:$24.00 https://dancingpetrel.co.nz/
Dancing Petrel Unoaked Viognier 2018 Northland NZ
Pale straw in colour with a hint of green, slightly oily viscosity. Floral nose with peach and apricot aromas. Lots of stone-fruit and citrus flavours on the palate with a tart hint of apricot kernal, fresh acidity, spice and a long fresh warming finish. $RRP:$24.00
https://dancingpetrel.co.nz/
Eaton “Melange Rougir” 2019 Marlborough NZ
Very interesting blend – Harrison says 80% Sauvignon Blanc fermented in barrel, 20% Pinot Noir in an open top fermenter, both parcels blended post ferment. Unfined & unfiltered, small amount of sulphur added prior to bottling – Bright clear raspberry red in colour. Fragrant nose of citrus & tropical fruit with a hint of red berries. Lighter bodied wine with subtle flavours and a gentle but tight acidity. Crisp & tasty finish, a Jazzy Natural Sauvignon Rose? I like it – always looking for something new to taste! Keep up the good work guys! RRP: $30.00
http://www.eatonwines.nz/
Eaton Wines “ffortissimo” Sauvignon Blanc 2018, Marlborough NZ
Huge wine – Bright golden yellow with the tiniest haze, quite viscous body, long slow “legs.” Immediate nose of gun-flint, green herb, yeast & burnt toffee? Weighty complex palate with emphasis on the textural elements, tart grapefruity citrus flavours, grippy acidity, “not so subtle” oak influence, spicy & vibrant with an incredible long finish – Savvy in a full blown Chardonnay style! So YUM! Only 648 bottles made. Won’t last long… RRP:$48.00 http://www.eatonwines.nz/
Eaton Waihopai – Tyntesfield Pinot Noir 2018 Marlborough NZ
Cherry red in colour with a slight haze from no fining / filtering. Lifted plum, cherry and spice in the nose with a savoury whiff! Medium bodied, well textured palate with cherry and dark plum flavours, grippy tannins, juicy acidity, dry as a bone with a long lasting finish – tasty & very elegant example of SV Marlborough Pinot Noir. RRP: $40.00 http://www.eatonwines.nz/
Invivo “SJP X” Sauvignon Blanc 2019 Marlborough NZ
Bright, very pale straw coloured in the glass. Fresh sweet nose of ripe tropical fruit & zingy citrus / grapefruity notes. Medium body / viscocity, and wonderfully balanced / integrated on the palate – there’s a hint of subtle oak texture & creamy lees influence softening the acidity and providing a smooth, mouthfilling wine with a medium finish. Excellent Blending Sarah! Love it! RRP:$20.00
https://invivoxsjp.com/
JANUARY
Eaton ‘Thistle Hill’ Sauvignon Blanc 2018 Marlborough NZ
Soft straw-lemon in colour, medium bodied, with the faintest haze. Fragrant nose with struck match, spice, toasty oak, stonefruit & grapefruit notes. Concentrated tropical & grapefruit flavours on the palate – nutty, buttery, nicely textured wine with a fresh tart acidity and a long, juicy moreish finish. Very elegant Sauvignon. Very limited production – only 378 bottles made. RRP:$64.00
http://www.eatonwines.nz/
Pirathon ‘Blue’ Shiraz 2017, Barossa AUS
Dark crimson/purple in colour. Weighty viscous wine with a nose of spice, earth & dark plum fruit aromas. On the palate there’s more rich plum fruit, savoury, choccy flavours, a little greenstalk / ripe tannins and very long warming finish – a grippy, grunty Shiraz which at 3 years old still needs a bit more time to integrate. Great value! RRP: NZ$25.00 https://www.pirathon.com/
Giesen Wines Mosel – 2018 Reiler Goldlay Riesling 2018, Mosel Germany
Pale straw coloured wine with a pale green tinge. Fragrant nose of blossoms & green apple which leads into a juicy palate of sweet citrus & apple flavours, complex textural elements from 3 months in oak, bright acidity and fruit sweetness all in perfect harmony. Mouthfilling and succulent – Highly recommend RRP:$26.99 https://giesen.co.nz/
Saorsa Syrah 2018, Hawke’s Bay NZ
Deep cherry / red coloured, medium bodied wine. Herbal & floral nose with hints of black pepper, liquorice and gamey, savoury notes. Gorgeous on the palate. Ripe plum & black currant fruit flavours, peppery, savoury, very dry with lively acidity, grippy tannins, layers of texture and complexity. Love to see this in 5 years! RRP:$36.00 https://saorsawines.co.nz/
Saint Clair Family Estate ‘Barrique’ Sauvignon Blanc 2016, Marlborough NZ
Bright lemon / gold in colour with an unusual nose for a savvy – vanilla, oak, smoke, yeasty & grassy notes. Weighty palate with nutty, ripe pear & stonefruit flavours, soft acidity, creamy mouth-filling, rounded & layered wine with texture, and interesting complexity – ‘Chardonnay meets Sauvignon’ – Great start to my 2020 reviews – Love it! RRP:$30.00 https://www.saintclair.co.nz
Thornbury Pinot Gris 2019, Waipara NZ
Pale onion-skin coloured with golden hues, medium viscosity. Lovely fresh aromas of sweet pear, lemon citrus & spice in the nose. Vibrant palate of spice, fresh citrus acidity, lush pear & citrus flavours with a long juicy & warming finish. Perfect with our Lime & Chilli Chicken dinner. RRP:$16.00 https://www.thornbury.co.nz