Ellero Central Otago Gewurztraminer 2010 14.3%
Be sure to just cool and not chill this wine before enjoying.
N: There is delicacy and complexity with this wine - take your time - gentle layers of spice, baby rose, ginger and crushed apple. A hint of minerality grows with each swirl and adds delicate easily missed minerality.
P: A swag of flavors and texture hit the palate taking a moment or two to settle. When they do - ginger and rose flavors arise first followed by apple, pear and tropical suggestions. There is warmth from the alcohol, but this adds to the experience. A moderate + to long finish with a whisper of apple crumble flavor.
Dry, balanced and well made.
This wine will definitley enhance a wine list. I would urge food pairing exploration.
4.5 Stars.
This is perhaps an atypical expression of Gewurztraminer as it dies not smack the nose with Lavender or Turkish delight or Lychee expected in so many examples. Give it time and the rewards will emerge.
Brick Bay Rose 2011 (53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot, 4% Malbec) 11% abv
A very pretty light rose appearance with a silvery shimmer
N: Wild strawberry, red apple skin and summer berry pudding seduce the nose.
P: Fruity and crisp with flavors that reflect the nose, medium+ acidity pushes forward the light red berry flavors and introduces a delicate rose and peach pit layer adding just a touch of complexity. A smidge of tannin adds a layer of texture to the smooth fruity texture already present.
Overall a lovely Spring, Summer and Autumn wine.
Don't chill it too much, just 20 mins in the fridge is all it needs with just 11% alcohol.
4 Stars.
Brick Bay Pinot Gris 2011 Matakana (North Auckland) 11.5%
N: Gentle and enticing bouquet of white fleshed summer fruits; Asian pear, sweet bosc pear; plenty of ripeness and hints of white pepper spice.
P: Juicy and fruity, lush and satisfying. This Gris will satisfy many palates and may even convert a few to Gris as well. Presented in an off-dry style with a core of fruit balanced and poised by a back bone of acidity. The finish is lengthy with hints of white pepper and pear skin flavors.
Drinking well now and for at least the next five years if stored properly.
4.5 Stars
