A newcomer to the Central Otago / Alexandra wine growing region is Barrington Wine from Alexandra – David and Karen Smythe based in Clyde along with Jerry and Judy Dowling in Auckland, formed Barrington Wine in 2011.

Their focus is to maximise this opportunity and provide wine lovers with their slice of Central Otago in a bottle. Their elegantly styled wines are crafted by award-winning winemaker, Antony Worch, from 100% Pinot Gris and Noir grapes, hand picked by Barrington’s families and friends at their single vineyard blocks. The wines epitomise everything they’ve grown to enjoy from this region.

It was great to catch up with David when he popped in on his way to Nelson recently, and to get some first hand info about what they are trying to achieve down in Central Otago. Interestingly they are releasing their wines in both 375mm and 750ml Bottles to give consumers the option of taking a couple of glasses with them to dine out or on a picnic – great idea!

Barrington Wine is a member of the Alexandra Basin Winegrowers, a group of 17 wineries situated around the Alexandra and Clyde sub-region of Central Otago.

Barrington Three Blocks Pinot Gris 2012
Bright Pale lemon in the glass, sweet stone-fruit and pears in the nose, crisp tart grape-fruit acidity on the palate, off dry style but has up front zing, nicely textured and lovely to drink – I wondered if it would taste a little differently from a full size bottle? Still needs time to settle down. I would certainly drink this over summer.
A/V: 13.3%   R/S: 5% RRP: $12.00 375ml,  750ml $24.00

Barrington River Block Pinot Rosé 2012
A lovely soft salmon pink in the glass, with sweet raspberries, floral with a hint of melon on nose. Lovely fresh red berries and crisp acidity on the palate, a tiny bit if residual sweetness balances it out – quite moreish and a Pinot Noir Rosé that you should try over the summer…
A/V: 12.9%   R/S: 5% RRP: $12.00 375ml,  750ml $24.00

Thanks David – I cant wait to try the 2012 River Block Pinot Noir which is due for release in April 2013.

To find out more, visit their Website or like their Facebook Page.