Matahiwi Holly South Series Chardonnay 2017
Matahiwi Holly South Series Chardonnay 2017 $33 The Holly South Series Chardonnay is from the southern Chardonnay planting in the ‘home’ vineyard at Matahiwi, just outside of Masterton. The vines were planted back in 2013 but it took 3 years before they were ready to produce enough fruit to make into a wine. So this […]
Gladstone Estate Wairarapa Viognier 2016 $25 (5 stars)
Hands down, this is one of my favourite drinks of the season. Owner-slash-winemaker Christine Kernohan has done it again with this fresh, intensely floral viognier that just screams spiced citrus, jasmine and classic apricot kernel characters in every mouthful. Luxuriously tropical, it also hits that sweet spot of beautifully balanced, zingy acidity that so many […]
Gladstone Wairarapa Rosé 2016 $25 (4.5 stars)
I adore the pink diamond-ballet shoe hue of this gorgeous little pinot rose from down Gladstone way and I love its seductive, candied aromas and layers of raspberry, creaming soda and juicy red fruits on the palate. Boasting classic cherry and berries and cream characters alongside lip-puckering acidity makes this absolutely magical. Organically produced by […]
Gladstone Estate 12,000 miles Wairarapa Sauvignon Blanc 2012
Gladstone Vineyard 12,000 miles Wairarapa Sauvignon Blanc 2012 $19 ★★★½ A superb sauvignon showing peach fuzz, passionfruit and citrus aromas that lead to punchy, cheek-sucking acidity, blackcurrant leaf, pineapple and herbaceous flavours and an intense, lime-laden finish. I’d love to taste this again in 12 months time when it’s had a chance to soften slightly. […]
Gladstone Vineyard Sophie’s Choice Barrel Fermented Wairarapa Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Gladstone Vineyard ‘Sophie’s Choice’ Barrel Fermented Wairarapa Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2010 $35 It’s as yellow as its Golden Retriever namesake. The late Sophie spent 14 years chasing birds, eating the grapes which fell from the crusher and bludging food from customers in the café. She’s much missed but this wine will leave a lasting impression. […]
Kate Radburnd Vine Velvet Wairarapa Pinot Noir 2009
Kate Radburnd Vine Velvet Wairarapa Pinot Noir 2009 $19 Ultra-fruity aromas of raspberry, cherry and liquorice while on the palate it is lush and beautifully ripe; the finish is warm, smooth and super-satisfying. Fantastic value for money and an absolute winner with roast lamb studded with garlic and rosemary. www.kateradburnd.co.nz
Ata Rangi Petrie
Ata Rangi Petrie Chardonnay (Wairarapa) 2008 $27 ****1/2 A lovely, clean chardonnay that in addition to hints of nutmeg, grapefruit pith and shortbread on the nose, has juicy stonefruit flavours, bracing acidity and minerality on the palate and a slippery-smooth nutty finish. If you’re a scallop wrapped in bacon I’d be very afraid…
