A few weeks ago I reviewed the Moncellier Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2010 and tonight I decided to taste the other bottle recieved courtesy of Greg Rowden, Director and Wine Maker – the Moncellier Marlborough Pinot Gris 2010 (Thanks Greg!)

This wine was sourced from a single vineyard in the Wairau Valley and according to the winemaker ‘was a dream to work with” – 2 yeast strains were used in tandem, and post ferment the lees were transferred to old french oak barrels, stirred twice a week for 2 months and then added back to the wine in tank.

The wine was clean, bright with pale green / straw hues, very powerful in the nose initially I got a little mineral / spice bite but then sweet white skinned peach and floral notes. On the palate the peaches continued along with a selection of citrus characters but no hint of pears as I kind of expected – very slight oiliness and still a bit of citrus in the front palate that will soften out with time but the mouth-feel and texture was great with a nice fresh juicy finish…

I had another glass later with dinner – Thai spicy coconut vegetable stir-fry and chicken kebabs on basmati rice – was actually a nice match…

I think this wine will improve with a couple of years of careful cellaring to fully integrate the components as it’s a little young and needs some time to settle – I rated this wine 17/20 – 85/100 (Silver)

This wine is distributed by Treasury Wine Estates and is available exclusively through fine wine and on premise outlets. Recommend Price points: Fine Wine Retail: $24.99 per Bottle. On Premise: $11.00 per Glass / $55.00  Bottle.

To find out more about Moncellier wines visit

Next review maybe before Xmas – if not hen the’ll be a few reviews after Xmas – in the meantime “Seasons Greetings to you all…”