Either Hugo or I go… One of Australia’s most famous brands has had a major makeover. Not only has it given its label a bit of nip-and-tuck and indulged in an expensive set of extensions; it’s also visited the local council chambers, filled out the forms and instigated a name change. First launched in 1980 … Read More
Author: Yvonne
Olssen’s Vineyard Sold – announcement just in
Hello Yvonne It is with mixed feelings that after 22 years in the business John and I have found a great set of future custodians for the special vineyard that is Olssens. By planting on the now famous Felton Road we became wine making pioneers of the Bannockburn region and the Cromwell basin. We had a vision of creating … Read More
Overstone Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay 2009
Overstone Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay 2009 $7.99 For less than ten bucks this is a cracker. Aromas of white peach, toasted nuts lead to juicy, peach notes on the palate. Fresh acidity means it also has a lot of life in it yet. Available from www.blackmarket.co.nz
Escarpment Pahi Martinborough Pinot Noir 2009
Escarpment ‘Pahi’ Martinborough Pinot Noir 2009 $65 This is one of a select five limited-edition; site-specific wines produced by Lord Larry McPinot and it’s a monster. Sexy cherry and intense dark chocolate merge with shitake mushroom and delicious dried herb notes. Despite packing a punch in the mouth the tannins are silken, lush and lovely … Read More
Matariki Quintology 2007
Matariki Quintology 2007 $80 One of New Zealand’s iconic red wines, this example of Gimblett Gravels gorgeousness is only released when the fruit is exceptional. A vintage-dependent blend of merlot, syrah, cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc and malbec, this version bursts with complex dried herbs, exotic spices dusted over juicy, ripe plum and dense berryfruit. I … Read More
Wynns Wines and Hard Rock Shiraz
Wynns has been around since the dawn of the dingoes and Kiwi’s have long been huge fans. When I asked around my local traps (the school mums, supermarket checkout ladies, the lotto man, the rural post driver, the plumber and the sparky), about the first red wines they ever tried, this reliable, cuddly Coonawarra brand … Read More
Gritty kiwi winemaking doco gives a few giggles
It’s called Passion and Patience, it’s a no-frills account of what’s involved in growing grapes, making wine and trying to make a dollar along the way. Don’t expect flashy, slick film making on this dvd – expect an honest account and a few laughs. http://www.bayofplentytimes.co.nz/news/passion-in-gritty-wine-doco/1117501/
Greywacke Marlborough Pinot Gris 2010
Greywacke Marlborough Pinot Gris 2010 $26 Half the juice was fermented in older French oak which contributes to the toasty, fig-like notes on the nose and the nectarine stone and spicy pear flavours on the palate. At 14% alc it’s far from delicate, but if mouthfilling succulence is what you’re after then look no further. www.greywacke.com … Read More
Lindauer Special Reserve Brut Cuvee NV
Lindauer Special Reserve Brut Cuvee NV $19 I love its classic coppery-gold colour and the aromas of oatmeal and ANZAC biscuits. Elegantly spritzy in the mouth with tangy white peach and creamy, toasty characters on the finish it’s a great value bubbles for any occasion. Widely available.
Squawking Magpie ‘The Stoned Crow’ Gimblett Gravels Syrah 2009
Squawking Magpie ‘The Stoned Crow’ Gimblett Gravels Syrah 2009 $40 Inky-dark and packed with concentrated plum, cocoa, sexy spices and lifted dried-herb aromatics. In the mouth it is luscious, juicy and elegantly flavoursome. The tannins are solid, present yet beautifully integrated and contribute to stunning length of flavour. This is a superb wine which is … Read More