I love a good international day of something, especially when it’s wine-related. So you can imagine my joy and jubilation upon hearing that The 7th Annual International Grenache Day is occurring on Friday September 16th. A day-long celebration of everything Grenache, one of the most widely planted yet least-known red grapes in the world. Grenache (or … Read More
2016 Archived Columns
Paper Road Wairarapa Pinot Noir 2014 $21 ★★★½
Grown and made in Opaki, just north of Masterton, this gently fruited velvety-plush pinot boasts a hit of sweet rosehip tea, ripe cherry and smooth, slippery raspberry notes on the finish. For lovers of sweet fruit and soft spices, this will absolutely hit the mark with a spicy warm lamb salad. www.paperroad.co.nz
De Morgenzon DMZ Chenin Blanc 2015 $25 ★★★★½
This is the first time I’ve ever tried South African Chenin and if this is the standard, I’m a total convert. Grown in the upper reaches of the Stellenboschkloof Valley in the Stellenbosch region, the vines which – no joke- they play baroque music to 24/7, have produced a creamy apple, crème caramel and nashi-scented … Read More
Soho Revolver Waiheke Island Merlot Cabernet Franc Malbec 2014 $38 ★★★★
When a wine wins a ‘Pure Gold’ medal at the Air NZ Wine Awards, it means it’s consistently scored more than the minimum gold score of 55.5/60. One sip and you’ll see why this wine’s done exactly that. Saturated with dark plum and concentrated berryfruit, complex savoury spices and cigar box complexity on the palate, … Read More
Stonecroft Gimblett Gravels Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 $25 ★★★★
Inky-dark and magenta-black hued, this organically produced cabernet shows a distinctly earthy vein running through it, while being supplemented by dried herbs, leathery, gamey notes and bold, bracing acidity. It’s young and tightly coiled, so if you’ve got time, decant it. Otherwise grab the biggest glass you can find and swirl the heck out of … Read More
Wine column week beginning 27 Aug, 2016
It’s amazing what one can find if you’re hunting for a chance at fame. After shooting an episode for my new series of Thirsty Work (Saturdays 3.55pm TV3) on innovations in glass technologies, I decided I’d like to know out more about how old bottles were made. I Googled ‘glass casting’ and a whole raft … Read More
Henschke Innes Vineyard Adelaide Hills Pinot Gris 2013 $40 ★★★★★
This is an ultra-clean, elegant, crunchy, quince and pear-packed pinot gris with a soft, citrus edge, white nectarine notes on the palate and a stylishly dry intensity on the finish. I found something different in every sip of this gorgeous wine, which I think is possibly the best pinot gris I’ve tasted from the lucky … Read More
Rock Ferry 3rd Rock Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2015
Rock Ferry 3rd Rock Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2015 $25 The Hutchison family own certified organic vineyards in Central Otago and in Marlborough, which is where this snappy sauvignon blanc hails from. Quite different in style from your usual Marlborough sav’s, this wine has deeply complex smoke, peppery watercress and basil aromas, which lead to a … Read More
Taylors Clare Valley Shiraz 2014 $18 ★★★½
This is a classic style of affordable shiraz oozing bright berryfruit and violet aromas and a mouthfeel tht’s soft, warming and mellow with saucy, plummy notes and hints of dark chocolate to finish. Dangerously easy to drink and easy on the wallet. Widely available
Black Estate Damsteep Waipara Pinot Noir 2014 $42 ★★★★
The Damsteep vineyard is in organic conversion, which sits nicely with the ethos of pretty much everything at Black Estate. There’s a deeply earthy, very ‘connected’ character in this wine which boasts aromas of sandalwood, cherry, funky spices, smoke, meaty mushroom and truffle. The tannins are present, but ultra-easy, making for a slippery-smooth mouthfeel. www.blackestate.co.nz