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. … Read More
Wairarapa
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. … Read More
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…