As a form of liquid geography, wine has a magical role. Through the combination of climate, soil and topography, New Zealand’s individual vineyard sites have unique environments, expressed from year to year in the style and quality of their wines.
Compared with wines blended from around the country or a specific region or sub-region, those grown at a single vineyard can carry a particularly strong signature. From vines tied to a particular place, the wines vividly express their origin in their flavour.
WHITES
Blackenbrook Nelson Pinot Gris 2023
Drinking well from the start, this estate-grown, hand-picked wine was handled in tanks (96%) and old oak barrels (4%). Mouthfilling and vibrantly fruity, it has strong, ripe stonefruit and spice flavours showing a distinct touch of complexity and a dryish, very harmonious finish. (13.5% alc vol) $23
Blind River Tekau Barrel Fermented Awatere Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2019
A top example of wood-aged Marlborough sauvignon blanc, this generous, singlevineyard wine was fermented and matured for 10 months in French oak barriques (8% new). Light gold, it is mouthfilling and fleshy, with rich tropical-fruit flavours, oak-derived complexity, gentle acidity and a dry, rounded finish. A lovely mouthful, it’s currently in full stride. (13% alc/vol) $30
