I recently had the opportunity to taste 3 new wines under the Makaraka Brand, originally part of the Ashwood portfolio but was purchased a while back and is now being marketed at this stage, on Facebook and through supermarkets. The marketing guy has indicated that the Makaraka Website will be up and running soon so watch this space…

There are two tiers in the Makaraka portfolio – the Estate Range includes Sauvignon / Gris, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot & Shiraz. The Reserve range includes Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Sauvignon / Gris, Chardonnay, Merlot and Pinot Noir. i tasted the following 3 which gave me an indication that these are all well made, reasonably priced wines.

Makaraka Reserve Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough NZ 2011 – Was a light lemon straw colour, with a whiff of tropical and citrus in the nose, lemon / lime citrus & capsicum on the palate which was nicely textured, a soft mineral mouth-feel, fresh length / finish – a nice easy drinking style of sav… 79 pts

Makaraka Reserve Chardonnay NZ 2011 –  Bright yellow-gold in the glass, with nice stone fruit in the nose, medium bodied with great fruit, subtle oak but not overpowering – great texture and weight, nice  finish… 83 pts

Makaraka Pinot Gris East Coast NZ 2011 – Lovely light onion skin / golden colour, some nice pear and spice in the nose and on the palate, fresh dry finish – would a be a good food wine… 81 pts.

If you’d like to find out more like their Facebook page and follow them on Twitter.