Mud House

Mud House 'Dambuster' Pinot Noir 2014 Marlborough (Btl. No 2946)
Very expressive bouquet of ripe red cherry and pomegranate, lots of sweet red rose, scents of mild toasty wood and baking spices, lots of fresh youthful energy. On the palate - juicy, fresh, lush and packed with silky tannin texture; flavours of red berries and sweet red plum, mild toasty oak return, very fine tannin, medium+ acidity and a length finish. Still in the throws of youth and will require some time to meld all the elements into one. Drinkable now if decanted through 2017; best window to enjoy 2018 - 2022. 
92 Points

Ellero

Ellero 'Pisa Terrace' Pinot Noir 2012 Central Otago
Fabulous fragrances of Pinot Noir with ripe red berry fruits wrapped in a blanket of floral, oak and mineral, red velvet roses, dark cherry and plum, gentle wood spices and new oak overtones; complex and alluring. On the palate - youthful, fruity, dry and spicy on the first sip; fine to moderate tannins with a chalky texture, elegant mid palate, medium+ acidity and gentle warmth on the second; just medium weight, lots of tension and youthful tugging, lengthy finish. Decent for service, best drinking window 2017 - 2023.
91 Points

Gladstone Vineyard

Gladstone Vineyard 'Sophie's Choice' Barrel Fermented Sauvignon Blanc 2014
Quite a rich bouquet with aromas that speak of fruit, oak and wine making - ripe grapefruit, gooseberry and yellow plum; fragrant lift and spices of barrel and ferment, moderate complexity - intriguing too. On the palate - fruity, dry, quite juicy and laced with wood spice and barrel fermentation flavours; ripe grapefruit and some peach; medium+ acidity, balanced and ready. Drink now and through 2017.
84 Points

Spade Oak Vibeyard

Spade Oak Vineyard 'Voysey' Pinot Gris 2015 Gisborne
Generous fruit lead bouquet with aromas of ripe apple and pear with a hint of sugar and spice, light mineral moments. On the palate - just off-dry with a little sweetness, but mostly fruit centered with flavours that reflect the nose, medium acidity and weight. A lovely wine with all-round appeal; balanced and well made. Drink now and through 2017.
87 Points

Saint Clair

Saint Clair Family Estate Sauvignon Blanc Wairau Reserve 2015 Marlborough
Pungent, aromatic, fruity and vibrant bouquet of fresh apple and mango, citrus and a mix of tropical fruits; sweet hay and sweet jalapeno. On the palate - juicy, fresh, lush and crisp with lots of contrasting acidity, weight and finish. A lovely balanced and well made example.
89 Points

Saint Clair Family Estate Pioneer Block Sauvignon Blanc Dillons Points 2015 Marlborough
Pungent and fruity with lots of power and energy; an elegant layer showing off some lees and spice; a light toasty note adds depth. On the palate - fruity, herbaceous, fresh and juicy with flavours that reflect the bouquet, a just a hint of sweetness contrast the powerful acidity, concentration and finish. Great balance and length. Drink now and through 2017.
90 Points

Ellero

Ellero 'Pisa Terrace' Riesling 2014 Central Otago
Pure aromatics of fresh mandarin, lime flower and crisp apple; light to moderate mineral and a fragrant floral rush of white rose and jasmine. On the palate - vibrant, crisp, packed with citrus and tree fruits flavours, plenty of mineral moments - stony almost slate-like; plenty of acidity; light weight, pure and lengthy finish. Fabulous drinking now with the ideal window from 2017 - 2025.
90 Points

Moss Wood

Moss Wood 'Wilybrup' Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2015 Margaret River

Ribbonvale Vineyard

Very fragrant and very ripe with aromas of grapefruit and gooseberry, crisp red apple and hay; waxy floral suggestions and noteworthy complexity. On the palate - crisp, fruity, lively and dry; lots of acidity and texture; flavours of citrus and peach, grapefruit and lime; hints of hay and spice. A lovely balanced, youthful example, in fact classic. Decant for service through 2017; ideal drinking 2019 - 2028.

90 Points

Rippon

Rippon Gewurztraminer 2012 Lake Wanaka Central Otago
Full, rich and distinctive bouquet with aromas of ripe stone fruit and tree fruits; lemon; wild flowers and haunting deeply scented herbs and spices layer making the bouquet very complex indeed. On the palate - just dry, rich core of fruit and spice, plenty of mineral reminders with hints of ginger and thyme; medium+ (ish) acidity and weight, lovely balance and length. Delicious now and through 2020.
90 Points

Ellero

Ellero Gewurztraminer 2014 Central Otago
Soft, gentle, fragrant, enticing and intriguing bouquet - softly scented white rose, white peach and other orchard fruits, a very mild ginger and lime note. On the palate - just dry, fruity and fragrant, mild to moderate spices overlay the fruit flavours; medium+ acidity, mineral moments and a lengthy quiet finish. A lovely example with a sexy seductive side; drinking well now and through 2020.
90 Points

Mahurangi River Winery

Mahurangi River Winery Albarino 2015 Matakana
Fruity, floral, peachy and harmonious bouquet; mild lees and toasty moments, a hint of spice and mild complexity. On the palate - ripe, dry and varietal with classic flavours of peach and tree fruits with a very light tropical note that then move or transition into lemon then back to peach; light mineral layer; medium+ acidity, moderate weight, balanced and well made. A decent example drinking well now and through 2017.
87 Points

Fromm Winery

Fromm Winery 'La Strada' Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Marlborough
Aromatic, floral, densely mineral, honeysuckle and spice, jalapeno and citrus, tropical and heady. On the palate - dry, fruity, citrusy and spicy with lots of wild and abundant flavour; loads of acidity and concentration, long mineral finish, plenty of texture driven by some lees, perhaps skin contact and some solids, lengthy finish, well made. Drink now and through 2019.
89 Points

Fromm Winery 'La Strada' Pinot Gris 2015 Marlborough
Very floral, soft honeysuckle and mineral core; aromas of white peach and white fleshed tree fruits, light yet noticeable spice, lees lead savoury layer. On the palate - delicious! vibrant and energetic core of fruit, spice and honeysuckle, peach and pear; lots of texture from silky to lightly creamy; medium+ acidity and quite weighty; long finish and quite complex. Fabulous example of Gris - drink now and through 2018.
91 Points

Fromm Winery 'Clayvin Vineyard' Chardonnay 2013 Marlborough (No 0397)
Complex bouquet of cashew nut & wood spice, ripe fruit with stone and citrus at the core, quite floral with some wild white flowers and loaded with chalky, stony mineral; complex. On the palate - complex, dry, lots of lemon zest, grapefruit with peach and apple, lots of texture from a combination of ripe fruit, ripe acidity and leesy solids wine making - fantastic! The oak is obvious yet well measured and not misleading keeing the core of flavours intact. Lengthy finish, balanced and very well made. Drink now and through 2025.
94 Points

Fromm Winery Riesling 'Spatlese' 2014 Marlborough
Ripe, floral, aromatic and pushy - with aromas of sweet mandarin and lime, crisp red and green apple, moderate+ mineral and quite floral with white rose suggestions. On the palate - medium+ to sweet, flavours of mandarin and tangerine, crunchy tree fruits and a lick of pineapple lemonade; the mineral and floral notes make another appearance; very crisp acidity gives contrast and balance. Very lengthy finish; drink now and through 2028 (at least).
91 Points

Mills Reef

Mills Reef Reserve Pinot Gris 2015 Hawke's Bay
A very rich bouquet with an integrated development layer; ripe and fleshy fruits with an oily almost 'Alsace - like' moment; some spice, lees and oak attributes. On the palate - dry, fuller-bodied style with flavours of ripe pear, spice, baked apple and some bottle development attributes. Moderate finish - drinking best now and through 2016.
82 Points

Domain Road

Domain Road 'Defiance' Pinot Gris 2015 Bannockburn Central Otago
Spice, mineral, white fleshed fruits and skin, attractive bouquet with medium complexity. On the palate - crisp, off dry and fruity with flavours of white fleshed tree fruit; a dusting of pepper and citrus, mild tannin texture adds length and complexity. Very well made. Drinking well now and through 2017.
89 Points

Mud House

Mud House Pinot Gris 2015 Marlborough
Very fruity and forward bouquet of ripe and juicy pears and yellow apples; a sweet almost lemon like moments and some florals. On the palate - very fruity and slightly creamy texture with plenty of acidity and some spice moments; the phenolics add some texture and length; balanced and well made - highly recommended - drinking well now and through 2017.
84 Points

Palliser Estate

Palliser Estate Riesling 2015 Martinborough 
Ripe, fruity, soft spices and floral; aromas and flavours of red and green apples, sweet lemon and sweetness with noticeable yet well placed residual sugar; lots of contrasting, fresh acidity, medium weight and a quite a long finish. Drink now and through 2019. Great balance and finish.
87 Points

Craggy Range

Craggy Range Single Vineyard Riesling 2014 Martinborough
Te Muna Road Vineyard
Very fragrant and very enticing with aromas of mandarin, lemon and lime flower, apple and a little apricot.On the palate - very crisp, noticeably dry, packed with energy and flavour; lemon, apple and mandarin flavours; high acidity, floral and lengthy finish. Fabulous aperitif style. Drink now and through 2025
90 Points

Taylors

Taylors 'promised Land' Shiraz Cabernet 2014 South Australia
Lots of dark berry fruit aromas with black berry and currant suggestions; some mild toasty and jammy moments with a hint of brown sugar; mild complexity and very fruity. On the palate - smooth, fruity, just dry and easy to drink with flavours of dark berries, a little jam and toast, mild tannins and acidity; moderate length. Well made and totally reliable style.
82 Points

Spade Oak Vineyard

Spade Oak Vineyard 'Heart of Gold' Syrah Tempranillo 2013 Gisborne
Inviting bouquet of fresh, ripe and fleshy dark red fruits laced with spices; black currant, blackberry and plum lead the fruit package with some baked strawberry and hints of meat and brown baking spices. On the palate - fruity, dry, fleshy and fruity with flavours that reflect the nose - some sweet meat and brown spice moments, fine to moderate tannins with a layer of chalky texture, medium+ (ish) acidity; balanced and well made, moderate finish.
88 Points

Cloudy Bay

Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir 2014 Marlborough
Powerful Pinot Noir bouquet with aromas of ripe, fresh red berry fruits laced with gentle oak spices and rock hard stony soils; some red apple skin and dark cherry fruit specifics, classic & enticing  with plenty of complexity. On the palate - packed with flavour and pinosity showing loads of ripe tannins and lush red berry fruit flavours; medium+ acidity and specific oak components, some dried herb and bramble moments, lengthy and age worthy complexity. Decent for service through 2017; ideal drinking 2018 - 2025.
93 Points

Mahana Estate

Mahana Estate 'Clays and Gravels' Pinot Noir 2013 Nelson
Vibrant and distinctive bouquet with aromas of light red berry fruits especially red and dark red cherry; light to moderate mineral and silty soil suggestions; mild to moderate oak influences; overall enticing and elegant. On the palate - fruity, dry, elegant and silky; lovely texture and fine tannins, medium+ acidity and length, great balance and finish.
91 Points

Mahana Estate 'Clays and Gravels' Riesling 2014 Nelson
'Classic' Riesling bouquet with aromas of crisp green apple, lemon and grapefruit; white flowers and steely almost silty mineral. On the palate - just dry with a nudge of sugar, lots of acidity forcing the wine into a dry finish and emphasising the mineral; plenty of lemon and apple flavours and a distinctive flavour of lime. Moderate to moderate + length, well made and suitable as an aperitif; drinking now and through 2021.

91 Points

Bannock Brae Estate

Bannock Brae Estate 'Goldfields' Pinot Noir 2014 Central Otago
Dark red berry fruit aromas with black cherry, blueberry and plum; bramble, wild herb and stony soil suggestions add complexity and depth; noticeable new oak suggestions. On the palate -  dry and quite fruity with dense, moist dark red berry fruits and plum flavours; medium to fine tannins with a silky texture, plenty of oak - though well contrasted by the fruit concentration; medium+ length. Overall a balanced and well made wine with a decent finish. Drinking well now - though decanting recommended and ideal window for drinking 2017 - 2020.
87 Points

Richmond Plains

Richmond Plains Pinot Noir 2014 Nelson
Fresh, fruity, clean, distinctive and packed with Pinot Noir signatures of red cherry and light red fruits, plum; lots of soil and mild savoury moments; a touch of wood spice and floral. On the palate - dry, tense, lots of fine tannins and contrasting fruit sweetness; medium+ acidity and precise flavours of wood spice, light red fruits, silty soil and mineral moments, fresh lively and distinctive with a lengthy finish.
90 Points

Craggy Range

Craggy Range Single Vineyard Pinot Noir 2013 Martinborough
Te Muna Road Vineyard
Distinctive regional signature of silty soils laced with clay and stones and a ripe strawberry-like fruit bouquet; other red fruits of sweet cherry and even a little pomegranate, cashew-like oak suggestions and a noteworthy floral attribute. On the palate - dry, fruity, fresh and loaded with pinosity; fine silky tannins, medium+ acidity and alcohol; sweet red fruit flavours, cashew nut oak and a lengthy finish. Decant for service through 2017; ideal drinking window 2018 - 2022.
89 Points

Rippon Vineyard and Winery

Rippon Young Vine Pinot Noir 2011 Lake Wanaka Central Otago
Lots of energy and with a sense of completeness - aromas of stony silty soils, light red fruits with a red apple moment; plenty of wood spice layers. On the palate - dry, youthful and loaded with texture - fine tannins and medium+ acidity coupled with a deep floral and fruit core present a wine of complexity and harmony yet very much at the beginning of its journey; lengthy yet subtle finish; drinkable now with an ideal window from 2018 - 2025.
90 Points

Rippon Mature Vine Pinot Noir 2011 Lake Wanaka Central Otago
Distinctive bouquet with reminders of soil and place, Burgundy and ripe New World pinosity; aromas of wild ferment woven into light red fruits - strawberry and red cherry, a touch of leather and red velvet; a light mushroom note and integrating wood tones. On the palate - dry, warm, spicy, loaded with light red fruit flavours and oak moments; lots of energy too; fine tannins and medium+ acidity; quite a bit of tension and poise before the wine relaxes and lets go. Decant for service through 2018; ideal drinking 2019 - 2025
91 Points

Taylor's

Taylor's Chardonnay 2015 Clare Valley Padthaway South Australia
'Classic' and familiar Taylor's Chardonnay bouquet with aromas of peaches and cream, sweet red apple and vanilla; a very light grape fruit note and mild complexity. On the palate - dry, creamy and quite fruity with flavours of ripe stone fruit and sweet apple, a light layer of wood tannin adds depth; medium (ish) acidity and moderate length. A balanced and well made wine - suited to food and fans of the variety.
84 Points

Taylor's Shiraz 2014 Clare Valley South Australia
Ripe, juicy and very fruity bouquet with loads of black currant and blue fruits; some brown sugar moments and toasted oak, marmite and vanilla suggestions - classic. On the palate - very fruity, medium+ weighted, fine easy tannins and medium acidity; loaded with flavours of black & blue fruits and the sweetness that toasty oak can provide. A very approachable wine ready for drinking now and through 2017.
88 Points

Mahana Estate

Mahana Estate 'Clays and Gravels' Sauvignon Blanc 2014 Nelson
Bold and alluring bouquet of ripe citrus and gooseberry fruits heavily laced with the influences of barrel maturation, raw brown sugar, wild honey, a touch of Manuka and sweet wild ferment residues. On the palate - dry, weighty (for a SB) flavours of citrus and baked apple; wood spice and honey moments; balanced, well made and ready to drink. Best enjoyed now and through 2016.
87 Points

haha

Haha Pinot Gris 2015 Hawke's Bay
Ripe, juicy, fleshy and unmistakably Pinot Gris; Asian pear, white peach and apple aromas laced with a touch of white spice and a hint of white sugar. On the palate - just off-dry with some sweetness contrasting the warmth of the alcohol and adding weight as well as texture; luscious and ripe tree fruit flavours, medium+ (ish) acidity, moderate length and finish. Drink now and through 2016.
84 Points

Moss Wood

Moss Wood 'Wilyabrup' Ribbon Vale Vineyard Merlot 2013 Margaret River
Takes a while for the wine to give up its bouquet (lots of glass swirls required) - when it does - wow! Quite a haunting yet calm bouquet of soft, fresh, dark and darker berry fruits and loads of plum moments; a touch of bramble, lots of clay and iron like soil suggestions; plenty of oak with a toasty, vanilla and brown baking spices. On the palate - fabulous - loads of sweet plum and oak combinations, darker berry fruits emerge as well; medium acidity; medium+ (ish) weight and soft to nail point tannins; persistent and consistent finish - a balanced and well made example.
93 Points

Moss Wood 'Wilyabrup' Ribbon Vale Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 Margaret River
Like its Merlot brother from the same vineyard - it takes a while for this wine to give up its bouquet as well - with the same result: Lots of dark berries with blackberry and blue fruit aromas; a mix of hay, tobacco and baked bell-pepper; loads of oak with spice, new wood and sweetness, hints of brown sugar. On the palate - delicious, rich, full-bodied and packed with muscle; dark berry flavours, lots of oak loaded with vanilla and spices, fairly toasty; plenty of ripe tannins with typical nail point impact and medium acidity. Lengthy,  and well made.
93 Points

Moss Wood 'Wilyabrup' Chardonnay 2014 Margaret River
Quite a complex bouquet build around specific components nutty, cashew-like new oak, fresh California peach, red apple, toasty butter moments and a synergy these elements bring to the wine. On the palate - dry, spicy, warm and rich in flavour and texture; plenty of stone fruit reminders with peach and some apricot; lots of red apple; wood spice and cashew nut; mild tannins, medium+ (ish) acidity; great length; a serious wine. Drink now if decanted; ideal drinking window 2017 - 2020.
90 Points

Moss Wood

Moss Wood 'Amy's  2014 Margaret River (WA) Australia
Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot Petit Verdot Malbec
Complex, calm then intense with its dark berry fruit aromas and sound use of oak, violets, fresh earth, complex and youthful. On the palate - fresh, intense and bold with a powerhouse of dark berry fruits, medium+ acidity, high tannins and long complex finish

94 Points

Fromm Winery

Fromm Winery 'La Strada' Rose 2015 Marlborough
Pinot, Syrah, Malbec
A delicious and fragrant bouquet of light red berry fruits and sweet roses, a touch of cream and light mineral moments. On the palate - fruity, crisp, firm and dry with lots of Summer berry fruit and cherry flavours, very mild fine tannins, plenty of acidity and a charming finish. Well made and drinking perfectly now and through 2016.
89 Points

Fromm Winery 'La Strada' Pinot Noir 2014 Marlborough
Complex bouquet packed with energy and concentration - aromas of mineral and soil first then wild and tamed red berry fruits - darker cherry and plum; some wild raspberry; quite calm wood spices and toasty mild vanilla note. On the palate - delicious - youthful, tense, plenty of acidity and fine silky to chalky textured tannins; medium+ concentration and a lengthy finish. The oak hovers above and below waiting to integrate further into the wine. Decent for service through 2017; ideal window for drinking 2019 - 2025.
94 Points

Fromm Winery 'Clayvin Vineyard' Pinot Noir 2014 Marlborough
Very complex bouquet with a specific first message of terroir showing a silty clay and organic-like mix leading to dense and quite rich aromas of red berry fruits soaking up the obvious fragrances of oak - new and not so new. On the palate - dry, complex, fruity, mild spices, plenty of fine chalky and silky tannins, medium+ acidity; lots of texture and flavour and loaded with pinosity. A great example of Pinot Noir. Decent for service through 2017; ideal window for drinking 2020 - 2026
96 Points

Fromm Winery 'Fromm Vineyard' Syrah 2012 Marlborough
Toasty, rich and very giving of Syrah aromas - darker berry fruits, quite meaty, peppercorns and a light dusting of freshly ground black pepper; loads of hard baked stony mineral notes. On the palate - complex, dry, medium+ weight with a back bone of acidity; darker berry fruit flavours return which are rip and packed with energy showing off the mid-palate core; long fine tannins, very lengthy finish; mild pepper and meat moments and a light layer of field mushroom. Decent for service through 2017; ideal drinking 2018 - 2025.
96 Points

Spade Oak Vineyard

Spade Oak Vineyard 'Voysey' Chardonnay 2014 Gisborne
Quite a calm Chardonnay bouquet with a mix of ripe white fleshed stone fruit, yellow apple and grape fruit peel, mild to moderate oak and gentlr complexity. On the palate - dry with a creamy texture and flavours that reflect the bouquet; medium+ weight with warming alcohol and medium acidity; the oak plays a bigger role on the palate with more obvious bit and tannin; a very approachable style to be enjoyed now and through 2017.
85 Points

Mahurangi River Winery

Mahurangi River Winery 'Field of Grace' Chardonnay 2014 Matakana 
Very fruity and generous bouquet with aromas of white and yellow peach, some fresh and sweet apple, plenty of oak and spice, some mild cream and soft cheese moments - overall very inviting. On the palate - dry, warm, full-bodied and generous; flavours of stone fruit and noticeable wood, a toasty-ness adds flavour and depth; medium+ acidity, youthful and tense. Okay to drink now with food (cheese) but best if cellared and engaged again from late 2016. 
85 Points

Mahurangi River Winery 'Field of Grace' Reserve Chardonnay 2014 Matakana
Full, rich, creamy, toasty and oaky bouquet with lots of over whipped cream and vanilla scents, spice, some butterscotch and popcorn reminders. On the palate - full-bodied, rich and creamy; packed with Chardonnay flavours and intensity; no mistaking to impact of oak; roasted stone fruits and vanilla butter flavours; quite nutty on the finish, balanced and well made. Must like oak - if you do this wine is for you. Drink now and through 2019.
90 Points 

Palliser Estate

Palliser Estate Chardonnay 2014 Martinborough
Lots of familiar aromas with toasty roasted stone fruits bathing in vanilla, butter and wood; peaches and apples, a touch of apricot; moderate wood spices with a sweet vanillin edge and burnt butter moment. On the palate - dry, creamy, fruity and generous with flavours of stone fruits and wood, mild wood lead spices and medium+ acidity; great balance and length, immediately approachable, but will also cellar well for 3 - 5 years or more easily.
88 Points

Palliser Estate

Palliser Estate Pinot Gris 2014 Martinborough
Lots of white fleshed orchard fruits with spiced pears and apples; a hint of lemon or grape fruit and dusting of white sugar with a hint of Asian spice. On the palate - just dry with a hint of sweetness; medium+ (ish) acidity and warmth; generous ripe white fruit flavours with pears and nectarine; very light tannins adding texture and length, hints of spice; balanced and well made with moderate complexity. Drink now and through 2017.
88 Points

Church Road Winery

Church Road Winery Syrah 2013 Hawke's Bay
Light to medium red fruits with a mix of raspberry, plum, black currant and dark cherry; mild to moderate oak tones with a toasty side; mild to moderate pepper tones and generous rich bouquet. On the palate - dry, fruity, peppery, spicy and full of Syrah character; decent concentration of flavours with dark berry fruit flavours; mild to moderate tannins, medium acidity and generous finish. A lovely example of HB Syrah with a medium to medium+ weight and finish.
88 Points

Desert Heart

Desert Heart Pinot Noir 2010 Bannockburn Central Otago
Aromas of soil, air, complexity, light red fruits and a heart of Pinot Noir; floral fragrances and mild to moderate wood spices add depth and complexity; overall an harmonious bouquet. On the palate - complex, dry, savoury and fruity with flavours of light red berry fruits woven between layers of dried herb, medium acidity and fine tannins; hints of underbrush and bracken, medium weight, balanced and well made. A wine still in development and with several years of this ahead. Drinking quite well now, perhaps best decanted for service or checked again in late 2016.
90 Points

Desert Heart 'Freedom' Pinot Noir 2011 Bannockburn Central Otago
Youthful, fruity, distinctive, woody, lots of pinosity and personality; some savoury dried herb moments; red apple skin and red cherry fruits with some yellow plum; wood spices and a touch of brown sugar wood. On the palate - dry, firm, tense, youthful, lots of light red fruit flavours, firm medium tannins - still evolving; medium+ acidity; lengthy and quite complex; plenty of wood spice and dried herb; the finish is lengthy and fruity. A wine that needs more evolution and integration time. Decant for service or continue to cellar and try again in 2017.
91 Points

Desert Heart 'Mackenzies Run' Reserve Pinot Noir 2012 Bannockburn Central Otago
Complex bouquet of soils, wood spices, ripe red berry fruits and a synergy that is difficult to describe; combinations of aromas - red apple skin and red rose; red cherry and fragrant dried herb, stony soils. On the palate - dry, firm, youthful and fruity - flavours of plum and red berry, rose and soils, wood spice and toasty lees; fine to medium (ish) tannins, plenty of acidity; balanced. Drinkable now if decanted, will continue to cellar for several years.
92 Points

Desert Heart 'Mackenzies Run' Reserve Pinot Noir 2013 Bannockburn Central Otago
Deliciously fruity and complex with a core of red berry fruits - dark cherry and raspberry wrapped in a rose and wood spice bouquet; mild dried herb and savoury suggestions. On the palate - dense and rich in character with lots of red berry fruit flavours; some plum notes; a touch of savoury; moderate wood tones; medium tannins of a silken and fine nature, medium+ acidity; lengthy and complex finish. A lovely wine concentration and charm.
94 Points

Gunn Estate

Gunn Estate Reserve Pinot Noir 2015 Marlborough
Vibrant, fresh and direct aromas of red berry fruits with dark skinned cherry, some raspberry and lots of plum; some lees and light wood tones and a mild savoury moment. On the palate - dry, youthfully firm and crisp with medium+ acidity, moderate tannins and fresh fruit flavours of plum and cherry; medium to medium+ length and moderate finish. A wine new to bottle and requiring some cellar time to show its true potential; overall well made. Best to leave in cellar till at least mid 2016.
83 Points

Te Mania

Te Mania Pinot Noir Rose 2015 Nelson
Lots of red fruits in the bouquet with cherry, strawberry and red apple skin suggestions; a distinctive savoury and mineral layer add a little complexity; some light lees work again adds some depth. On the palate - dry, crisp, firm and fruity; an easy drinking style with a light dusty tannin texture, crisp clean acidity and lengthy fruity finish, great balance and length. Drink through 2016
88 Points

Gladstone Vineyard

Gladstone Vineyard Rose 2015 Wairarapa
Merlot, Cabernet Franc & Pinot Noir
Very fruity bouquet with subtle savoury notes; red plum and red cherry with light florals. On the palate - dry, fruity, warm, generous; the light savoury note comes through with an added spice layer; medium+ acidity and medium weight; a nice wine for cooler Summer evening sipping and ideal with cold meats; very light tannins add to the structure and texture; balanced and drinking well now and through 2016.
84 Points

Te Mania

Te Mania Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Nelson
Ripe, fresh, layered and fruity bouquet with suggestions of fresh citrus, sweet herb, hay, lime flower and honeysuckle. On the palate - juicy, fresh, ripe and just dry with flavours that reflect the nose - sweet citrus then lime flower, a core of peach; plenty of acidity to contrast and add texture as well as length. Balanced and well made. Drink now and through 2017.
90 Points

Richmond Plains

Richmond Plains Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Nelson
Fragrant, calm, alluring and distinctive bouquet with honeysuckle laced citrus and white peach; some grape fruit and floral moments adding depth; noticeable mineral core sets this wine's aroma apart from others in this category - very nice! On the palate - dry, mineral, savoury and complex with flavours and textures that speak of a place and a time; citrus and apple, honeysuckle and white peach; loads of acidity and length. Drink now and through 2018.
92 Points

Haha

Haha Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Marlborough
Juicy, ripe, fresh and lively bouquet of sweet citrus and white stone fruits; mild herb and grass moments. On the palate - dry with lots of fresh lemon, apple and white fleshed fruit flavours, lots of acidity adding bite and texture; moderate length and complexity, balanced and well made. Drink now and through 2016.
86 Points

Clos Marguerite

Clos Marguerite Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Marlborough
Complex bouquet of sweet herb and angelica, minerals and light savoury core surrounding a core of fruit lead by lemon, tangerine, gooseberry and peach. On the palate - tasty and delicious with a core of fruit, powerful ripe acidity, light savoury, lees and sweet herb layers; a lovely wine with a long citrus peel and white peach finish. Drink now and through 2019.
93 Points

Palliser Estate

Palliser Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Martinborough
Distinctive, expressive and loaded with fresh fruit aromas laced with a silty mineral suggestion; some soft spice and floral moments along with a savoury leesy layer add complexity and a point of difference. On the palate - just dry, great core of fruit with juicy salivating acidity, very light savoury mineral layer and a mealy texture adding length and personality. Fairly lengthy finish, balanced and well made. Drink now and through 2017.
92 Points

Tiki Estate

Tiki Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Marlborough
Attractive and enticing bouquet of sweet ripe citrus, fresh orchard fruits, very stony minerals and loads of fresh herbs. On the palate - juicy, dry, fresh and delicious, a very nice wine that ticks all the boxes of Sauvignon Blanc from the region. Loads of acidity contrasted by ripe fruit flavours, just a nudge of sweetness, lengthy finish enhanced by a snippet of dissolved SO2. Drink now and through 2017.
90 Points

Two Rivers

Two Rivers 'Convergence' Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Marlborough
Classic bouquet of fresh herbs and grassy meadows, crunchy red apple and tropical fruits laced with citrus; juicy, fresh, lively and plush. On the palate - very crisp, fresh and lively with vibrant almost electric acidity, lemon, grape fruit and peach flavours with a light pineapple and passion fruit suggestion; wet stone, medium+ length, great balance and finish. Drink now and through 2017.
90 Points

Mud House

Mud House Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Marlborough 
Vibrant and concentrated bouquet of fresh peach, mango-passion and ripe citrus; some sweet white florals, mild stony mineral and soft fresh herb moments. On the palate - just dry with a nudge of sweetness, vibrant fresh fruits and acidity with sweet peach and lemon, a touch of tropical and fresh herb; balanced and well made, easy to drink uncomplicated expression. Drink now and through 2016.
88 Points

Domain Road Vineyard

Domain Road Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2014 Bannockburn Central Otago
Mineral, citrus, apple, Spring flowers, fresh, lively and varietal bouquet. On the palate - dry and flavours as the nose suggests with lots of crisp fresh citrus and crunchy apple, very mild herb moment, stony mineral layer and a light spice. Balanced and well made with a lengthy, light and lean finish. Drink now and through 2016.
85 Points

Waipara Hills

Waipara Hills Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Marlborough
Quite a distinctive bouquet, forward, fruity, fresh, herbaceous and loaded with mineral and wet river stone; grape fruit, apple and some white peach aromas. On the palate - tasty, lively, fresh and packed with white stone fruit and citrus flavours; fresh, ripe acidity, crunchy sweet herbaceous layer and more mineral moments on the lengthy finish. Great drinking now and through 2017.
88 Points

Sacred Hill

Sacred Hill Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Marlborough
Bold, plush and fruit lead bouquet with waves of citrus and tropical fruit suggestions, crisp apple and fresh herb attributes. On the palate - everything the nose suggests with ripe, sweet and juicy fruit flavours, sweet herb and crunchy acidity; some wet stone mineral and lengthy finish. Balanced, well made and right for drinking now and through 2016
87 Points

Gladstone Vineyard

Gladstone Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2014 Wairarapa
Distinctive bouquet of ripe orchard fruits laced with a leesy mineral and white smoke suggestions; lots of fresh peach and sweet red apple; some floral moments and and light herbaceous attributes. On the palate - dry, fresh, crunchy and fruity; plenty of mineral laced fruit flavours, a light lees-like moment and moderate yet consistent finish. Well made example.
89 Points

Te Mania

Te Mania Pinot Noir 2014 Nelson 
Varietal Pinot Noir bouquet with aromas of wild red berries, flowers and soil; cranberry and cherry with red plum then stony silty mineral qualities adding complexity and a little mystery then wild flowers and whispers of oak - overall a nicely packaged bouquet. On the palate - fruity, dry and all Pinot with fruit flavours that reflect the nose, mild to moderate oak spice and toastiness, lots of soil, lots of charm, a layer of floral, fine tannins and medium+ acidity. Balanced and well made example - suitable for early drinking and through 2019.
89 Points

Fromm Winery

Fromm Winery 'La Strada' Syrah 2014 Marlborough
Quite a powerful bouquet of dark berries, spice and oak - black plum, blackberry and baked red fruits with plenty of toasted oak aromas, moderate pepper, wild red meats, mild savoury complexity and course mineral and soil layers. On the palate - dry, firm, rich, youthful, tense and loaded with flavour; dark berries, brown spices and pepper, abundant tannins with a mix of fine and dusty particles; lots of acidity and mineral tones, no mistaking the oak; fabulous concentration and length. A delicious example with ideal drinking from 2017-2025
93 Points

Domain Road Vineyard

Domain Road Vineyard Pinot Noir 2012 Bannockburn Central Otago
Mixed red berries with dark rose and red velvet cake lead the bouquet; lots of mineral with a rocky schist like aroma, mild oak spices and toasty wood layer. On the palate - dry, firm, fruity and textured palate; medium+ acidity with fine to not so fine bank of tannins; flavours of raspberry, dark cherry and other red berry fruits; youthful tasty and quite lengthy on the finish. Decant for service if opened today and will continue to evolve from 2016 - 2020
88 Points

Zephyr

Zephyr Sauvignon Blanc 2014 Marlborough
Glover Family Vineyards
Distinctive, pungent and generous of fruit aromas  - white peach and citrus, sweet hay and wet stone, lively and alluring. On the palate - crisp, dry and fruity with lots of citrus and stone fruit flavours, high acidity and light weight appeal, balanced and well made.88 Points

Zephyr MKIII Zephyr Sauvignon Blanc 2013 Marlborough N000482
Glover Family Vineyards
Enticing bouquet of spice and ripe fruit, a hint of lees and sweat, sweet hay and ripe citrus, quince and apple fruit make a brief appearance. On the palate - dry, fruity, lively and packed with texture as well as flavour; lots of zesty citrus moments, apple and quince, medium stony mineral and enegrised acidity, great balance and length. Drink now and through 2017.90 Points

Zephyr Riesling 2015 Marlborough
Glover Family Vineyards
Floral, fresh and fruity with sweet apple, pear and citrus aromas, some stony mineral moments and calm completeness. On the palate - lots of texture with a mealy layer lead by the acidity, ripe tree fruit and citrus flavours, floral, stony and loaded with flavour - a mandarin and lime note; great balance and length. Complete and drinkable now and through 2020.91 Points

Zephyr Gewurztraminer 2015 Marlborough
Glover Family Vineyards
Fragrant, juicy, lush and lively sweet fruit aromas of white stone fruit, some tropical moments, juicy red apple and a spicy floral core; overall quite calm and serene. On the palate - fruity, warm, generous and spicy; some white pepper and warming alcohol are equaled by a richly flavoured palate with sweet lemon, apple and white fleshed stone fruit flavours, medium to medium+ acidity, generous and lengthy finish. Chill for service today and through 2017.88 Points

Zephyr Chardonnay 2014 Marlborough
Glover Family Vineyards
Familiar bouquet of orchard fruits and vanilla scented  - roasted stone fruit and ripe grape fruit, light toasty oak offering a gentle smoke and vanilla pod scents; moderate complexity. On the palate - youthful, firm, dry; oak flavours first then orchard fruits follow; some citrus and stone fruit flavours emerge last, medium+ acidity, noticeable oak toasty moments and medium to medium+ weight; some leesy almost lactic tones add texture and complexity. Overall a tasty wine showing its youthful side. Decant for service or cellar for another 1-3 years at least. A wine with potential.89 Points

Forrest

Forrest 'The Valleys' Dry Riesling 2010 Wairau
Fragrant and distinctive with lots of white Spring flower aromas, crisp green apple, pear and honeysuckle. On the palate - dry, crisp, fresh, firm fruity and varietal with apples and pears, urgent acidity with piquant high notes, generous fruit flavours and lengthy youthful finish.86 Points

Forrest 'The Valleys' Dry Riesling 2009 Brancott
Fruity, fresh, lively and familiar with light tropical fruit aromas laced with sweet citrus and white tree fruits. On the palate - crisp, firm and fresh; lots of lemon peel and apple flavours, high acidity, wet stone minerality, light weight and very easy to drink in a just dry style. This wine is still very young and will continue to age and evolve for the next 10+ years.90 Points

Forrest 'The Valleys' Dry Riesling 2010 Brancott
Fruity and lively with quince and citrus aromas, lots of crunchy red apple and floral moments, a touch of kero'. On the palate - dry, firm, crisp, fresh and fruity with all the flavours suggested on the nose; high acidity, light weight and flavourful, balanced and well made. Like the 2009 - will age and evolve for the next 8-10 years,89 Points

Forrest Botrytised Riesling 2011 Marlborough
Powerful bouquet - ripe and plush - poached stone fruit, honey and hot pineapple. On the palate - very sweet with plenty of acidity bringing the palate into focus quickly, honey, beeswax, preserved lemon, marmalade and poached stone fruit flavours - delicious! Lengthy finish.91 Points

Mt Beautiful

Mt Beautiful Sauvignon Blanc 2014 North Canterbury
Mineral, citrus, ripe fruit, a touch of tropical and lots of sweet herbs; classic, typical, robust.
On the palate - dry, fresh and firm on flavour, lots of citrus peel and lemon/grapefruit flavours, fresh herb, apple and mineral suggestions; plenty of acidity and texture with a light lees layer; well made with a moderate finish.85 Points

Clearview Estate Winery

Clearview Estate Winery 'Te Awanga' Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Hawke's Bay
Distinctive and forward bouquet with aromas of ripe grape fruit and other citrus with suggestions of tangerine and wild peach; hay and other herbaceous moments and a distinctive saltiness - which I really like. On the palate - dry with some very ripe peach and citrus flavours, a touch tropical fruit flavour and lots of acidity; generous, that salt-lick returns; flavourful and very easy to drink; well made and drinkable now and through 2017.
89 Points

Clearview Estate Winery 'Endeavour' Chardonnay 2013 Hawke's Bay
Significant bouquet - bold and complex with aromas of brioche, baked stone fruits, raw brown sugar, toasty barrel spices and a stone clay mineral undercurrent. On the palate - complex, rich, spicy, bold, immensely flavourful and packed with texture - a key feature. Flavours reflect what the nose suggests; plenty of acidity and bite of oak; long creamy finish with a saltiness and almost cheesy leesy feel - fantastic! Decant for service please - totally drinkable now, but will also cellar and reward for best drinking from 2017 - 2025
96 Points

TWR Te Whare Ra

TWR Te Whare Ra Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Marlborough
Very fragrant bouquet with aromas of fresh pineapple, white peach, crisp red apple and white flowers; a very real energy at the core with a lick of wild ferment and sweet herbs; perhaps a touch of snow pea. On the palate - dry, fresh, crisp and packed with flavour - lots of citrus and tree fruit flavours then white stone fruits and a little honeysuckle; touch of spice; high acidity and lengthy finish. A tasty and totally drinkable example - drink now and through 2017.
89 Points

TWR Te Whare Ra Riesling 'M' SV 5182 Marlborough
Distinctive and slowl unfurling bouquet of white flowers, mandarin and lime flower, sweet ripe citrus and red apple; touch of wild honeysuckle and harmonious core. On the palate - off-dry with some sweetness, immediately contrasted by plentiful acidity and urgent flavours of tree and citrus fruits; fantastic texture and length a delicious, juicy and totally enjoyable wine. Drink now and through 2024.
95 Points

TWR Te Whare Ra Pinot Gris SV 5182 Marlborough
Spices, white fruits, hints of citrus, honeysuckle and pear; a distinctive natural ferment Manuka honey note adds a layer of complexity. On the palate - almost dry, flavours of pear skin, white fleshed tree fruits, a touch of white pepper spice and honeysuckle; the alcohol adds weight and richness while the acidity adds texture and firmness on the finish. The phenolics also add key textures. a tasty and totally drinkable wine. Enjoy now and through 2017.
89 Points

Kim Crawford

Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Marlborough
Pungent, bold, fruity and herbaceous  - a bouquet showing many classic aromas - peach, mango, passion-fruit and citrus; fresh sweet herbs and a jelapeno/red bell pepper note. On the palate - just dry with a little sweetness immediately contrasted by very high acidity and and flavours of tropical fruits and citrus; very fresh herbs and even sweet grass moments; balanced, well made and ready for drinking.
82 Points

Pegasus Bay

Pegasus Bay 'Aria' Late Picked Riesling 2014 Waipara Valley North Canterbury
Bold and rich scents of honey, syrup, sweet citrus, apple tart tatin and poached orchard fruits. On the palate - lush and juicy with significant acidity and weight, rich, lush and fruity flavours of stone and orchard fruits finishing with a citrus, apple and honey. A delicious wine!
93 Points

Pegasus Bay 'Finale' Noble Semillion Sauvignon Barrique Fermented 2011 Waipara Valley North Canterbury
Deep golden hues and star bright appearance. Aromas of spice, beeswax and honeycomb; preserved apricots and peaches with citrus peel, very distinctive and packed with energy. On the palate - fantastic! Delicious, honeyed, oozing flavour and texture with huge sweetness equaled by acidity and richness; oak spices, citrus and stone fruit flavours, long finish.
94 Points

Pegasus Bay 'Prima Donna' Pinot Noir 2012 Waipara Valley North Canterbury
Quite a dense and rich perfume with aromas of crushed roses, red berry fruits, spices and mineral; quite a distinctive layer with the oak and mineral aromas intertwined; as the wine opens up aromas of other red fruits especially plum and red currant begin to emerge; overall complex. On the palate - savoury and dry with flavours of red berry fruits, silty mineral and spicy oak - these features are enhanced by the alcohol also emphasizing the medium+ tannins and acidity - both adding age worthy components; youthful yet lengthy finish; well made. Must be decanted for service though best drinking will likely begin from 2018 - 2025
93 Points

Monowai

Monowai Pinot Noir 2013 Hawke's Bay
Seductive ripe red fruits and baking spices with a warm and generous bouquet; old strawberry, warm raspberry and 5 spice plum suggestions with medium toasty oak qualities and generous overall expression. On the palate - youthful, tense, dry, fruity; very youthful on the palate with lots of acidity and moderate tannins still settling in; flavours of red berry fruits emerge then crushed stone, dried herb and mild oak flavours force their way into the forefront of flavour. Needs further integration time of at least a year. Decant for service with food or cellar through 2017 and try again. This wine has potential - just needs some time.
85 Points

Kim Crawford

Kim Crawford Pinot Noir 2014 Marlborough and Central Otago
Fruity, ripe varietal and full of Pinot Character with light red fruit aromas (a mix), a light stony minerality and mild toasty oak suggestions. On the palate - fruity, clean, fresh and light with flavours of light red fruits - strawberry, raspberry and red cherry, mild vanilla and oak spice, very mild tannins and medium+ acidity, balanced and well made in a drink now style. 
80 Points

Palliser Estate

Palliser Estate Pinot Noir 2014 Martinborough
Generous and ripe bouquet of red berry fruits, a silty mineral almost gravelly underbelly and a fragrant varietal lift; aromas of dark cherry and plum, some fruit cake and baking spices, moderate+ (ish) oak and toasty elements. On the palate - dry, toasty, fruity and flavourful; a very youthful palate with quite a lot of tension from the acidity and tannins - a wine that requires at least another year in bottle to begin to knit together more; flavours of red cherry and plum with some darker berries and spices. Will find its balance in 12-24 months - so keep please and begin to enjoy from 2017.
88 Points

Sacred Hill

Sacred Hill Hawke's Bay Chardonnay 2015
A bouquet that suggests an equal measure of ripe fruit and oak creating a synergy of stone fruit and ripe citrus aromas alongside gentle spicy oak and light spices. On the palate - dry, firm, fruity with flavours of apple and white peach with a little citrus, moderate oak and vanilla moments, balanced and well made in a drink now style. Medium+ acidity, low to moderate oak, medium to medium+ weight. Drink now and through 2017.
80 Points

Tiki Estate

Tiki Estate Pinot Noir Rose 2015 Marlborough
Bold, ripe, fruity and distinctive bouquet of red berry fruits showing loads of fresh crunchy cherry, strawberry compote and apple. On the palate - juicy, fleshy, crisp and fresh with lots of red berry fruit flavours, salivating acidity and very fine dusty tannin moments. Balanced and well made in a just dry expression. Drink now, over Summer and through 2015.
84 Points

Palliser Estate

Palliser Estate Rose 2015 Martinborough
Plush, fruity and generous bouquet of light red fruits - strawberry and red cherry showing the most; some floral suggestions and a little apple skin. On the palate - fresh, crisp, fruity, just dry and loaded with flavours of light red berry fruits; plenty of acidity adds crispness and while a hint of tannins adds texture. Balanced, fresh and well made. Drink now and through 2016
82 Points

Clearview Estate Winery

Clearview Estate Winery 'The Basket Press' 2013
Bordeaux blend using 4 varieties
Bold, rich, meaty, distinctive, masculine, ripe and packed with aromas of ripe dark berry fruits and oak. Black berries, currants, sweet plums and crushed violets, touch of saltiness adds complexity and depth - overall very complex, very young. On the palate - juicy, oaky, fresh, very fruity, tense, youthful and poised for ageing; a delicious wine with multiple layers of flavour and texture; clove and coffee bean, toast and brown baking spice moments; highish acidity and tannins; velvet texture and long finish; a complex and exciting wine to taste, well made and proving that the Bordeaux red blend has an enormous future in New Zealand.97 Points

Mudbrick Vineyard

Mudbrick Vineyard 'Velvet' 2014 Waiheke Island (Bottle 1525)
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot lead blend
Complex, enticing and exciting bouquet of wild red and black berry fruit, tamed black fruits especially blackberry and black currant suggestions, pungent violet perfume and distinctive mix of oak and soil scents. On the palate - generous, rich, dry, ripe, fruity and full-bodied; there's much to consider with this wine - reflecting all that the bouquet suggests with plenty of acidity and tannin adding texture, depth and length to the palate. Additional flavours include suggestions of clove and licorice, baking spice and toasty vanilla. Long and complex finish - a fabulous wine!
96 Points

Mills Reef Winery

Mills Reef Winery Gewurztraminer 2013 Gisborne
Fragrant, full and rich bouquet, many fruit aromas present with lush, fresh and juicy promises; floral with lavender and old rose moments. On the palate - rich and creamy with an abundance of flavour and texture; a reflection of the nose; medium acidity, generous spice and a lengthy finish with moderate complexity.
84 Points

Wairau River

Wairau River Family Estate Pinot Gris 2015
Fruity, vibrant, crisp and varietal with aromas of yellow apple and sweet pear with honeysuckle and spice, quite generous and giving of personality. On the palate - just dry with a little sweetness, medium+ acidity and alcohol; lots of fruit flavours and texture with some phenolic moments back palate. Overall a balanced and well made example. Drink now and through 2016.
85 Points

Wairau River Family Estate Albarino 2015
Quite a fruity bouquet with a gentle almost clam varietal signature - a mix of soft white pepper laced citrus fruit, then peach and some apple moments; quite floral and mineral too then a gentle but noticeable dried herb moment - actually adds complexity. On the palate - dry, fruity and with lots of texture; the transition from fruity to citrus and sour is classic and part of what this variety does on the palate; medium+ acidity, moderate alcohol and weight and a lengthy fruit centred finish, great balance and well made - a very New World expression. Drink now and through 2017.
88 Points

Brancott Estate

Brancott Estate ' Letter Series F' Pinot Gris 2015 Marlborough
Vibrant and distinctive bouquet of fleshy and spicey pear, a touch of baking spice and quince. On the palate - off-dry with some residual sweetness adding a creamy texture to a fruit centered palate - medium+ (ish) weight with flavours of pears and apples, a touch of quince and the return of a little spice, plenty of alcohol and medium+ acidity adding texture and finish; balanced and well made. Drink now and through 2016.
88 Points

Brancott Estate ' Letter Series O' Chardonnay 2014 Marlborough
No mistaking the creamy and brulee lead bouquet with vanilla and whipped creamed scents; baked peach and nectarine, toasty oak and spice. On the palate - creamy, dry, fruity and oaky - lots of crowd pleasing attributes with flavours that reflect the nose, medium+ alcohol, medium acidity and lots of bite from the oak. Balanced. Drink now and through 2017.

88 Points

Gunn Estate

Gunn Estate Sauvignon Blanc Reserve 2015 Marlborough
Totally pungent and fruity bouquet with bold and expressive aromas of tropical and sweet tree fruits - apple and pear; sweet grapefruit and a touch of white peach; dry stone mineral suggestions. On the palate - lively with a nudge of petilance, lots of juicy acidity then high impact fruit flavours of pineapple, quince, peach and citrus, a hint of spice; balanced and well made - drink now and through 2016.
89 Points

Mudbrick Vineyard

Mudbrick Vineyard Reserve Chardonnay 2014 Waiheke Island
Classic, distinctive, familiar, oaky, toasty, fruity, inviting; aromas of baked stone-fruits laced with creme brulee and butter; vanilla and baking spices. On the palate - full bodied, dry, rich in flavour lead by fruit and oak then spices and buttery flavours and rich creamy textures - plenty to enjoy. All this flavour and texture stands on a foundation of well chosen oak and ripe fruit with some tannins taking a role as well; balanced and well made - easily drunk now or cellared for 3-5 years.
93 Points

Locharburn

Locharburn Pinot Noir 2013 Central Otago
Very youthful appearance of dark red and cherry, almost crimson, very bright. Big fruity bouquet with aromas of raspberry and ripe cranberry, red apple skin and dark rose, moderate oak, quite forward yet balanced overall impression. On the palate - fruity, dry, juicy - lots of raspberry and red berry flavours, medium+ tannins and acidity, moderate oak. A balanced and well made wine with plenty of life ahead - decant for service today or cellar through 2018.
86 Points

Takatu

Takatu Pinot Gris 2013 Matakana
It's been a while since I tasted a wine from this producer.....quite fragrant with a mix of varietal white tree fruit aromas - pears and pear skin, a touch of apple; then some dried white herb suggestions and mineral moments, a hint of white pepper - overall quite Grigio in its bouquet. On the palate - dry, firm, tense and poignant in its flavours messages of pear skin and spiced tree fruits, the white pepper suggestion returns along with a light mineral undertone; not completely dry on the finish with a lick of sweetness; balanced and well made, youthful and still developing. Drink now and through 2018.
87 Points

Lone Goat Vineyard

Lone Goat Vineyard Late Harvest Riesling 2007 Canterbury
Very golden and very bright appearance; A bouquet of honeyed stone fruits suggesting sweet apple, honey and apricot jam. On the palate - well integrated and on its final plateau - flavours of sweet lemon, apricot and honeyed apple lead are contrasted well with pretty high acidity adding crispness and length to the finish. Balanced and well made with a medium finish. Drink now and through 2016.
84 Points

Lone Goat Vineyard Botrytis Selection 2007 Canterbury
Fully integrated and developed bouquet of honey, dried apricots and treacle, some apple; some mineral undertones too and a touch of glace lemon. On the palate - very creamy and very sweet - loaded with honey and stone fruit jams. Lengthy finish. A wine for very sweet dessert indeed, but not impossible to match. Chill well and serve now and through 2016.
80 Points

Te Mania

Te Mania 'Koha' Ice Riesling 2013 Nelson
Fragrant and floral with aromas of sweet lemon and a touch of lemonade; honeysuckle and jasmine; a castor sugar and kerosine suggestion add complexity and curiosity. On the palate - creamy, sweet, fresh and loaded with the flavours of sweet citrus and orange with some 'kero' moments; balanced and lengthy finish. A wine destined to be paired with food - not too sweet though. Well made and worth a try.
85 Points

Pegasus Bay

Pegasus Bay Sauvignon Semillon 2013 Waipara Valley
Fruity, waxy, ripe and packed with suggestions of honey, sweet Meyer lemon, pears and white peaches; some floral moments and lees like suggestions add depth and allure. On the palate - quite a powerful impact with plenty of acidity contrasted immediately with ripe citrus and orchard fruit flavours; the honey note returns though not as strong; lots of texture from lees and perhaps a little spice from oak; quite a classic finish which is dry, lengthy finish and quite classical. One for the cellar. 
94 Points

Pegasus Bay Gewurztraminer 2014 Waipara Valley
Beautiful golden hues and star bright in appearance; a full and rich bouquet of Gewurztraminer with perfumed scents of nougat and burnt roses, a touch of brulee and white peach; lots of fruit suggestions begin to unfurl as the wine opens up in the glass. On the palate - creamy, rich, salivating and packed with multiple fruit flavours; the tension mid and back palate from the phenolics adds texture and length as well as pushes the flavour of creme-de-violet and Spring fruits; honey is also a key feature; long rewarding finish. 
95 Points

Moss Wood

Moss Wood 'Wilyabrup' Semillon 2015 Margaret River Western Australia
Enticing and distinctive bouquet of white flowers, ripe citrus with suggestions of mandarin and tangerine, sweet hay and gentle yet obvious spice. On the palate - delicious! dry, vibrant, varietal and packed with flavour and texture; some gentle lees and spice moments, lots of acidity add both grip and texture, mostly a grape fruit and tangerine citrus base to the fruit, floral suggestions return and a gentle waxy texture leads to the finish, great balance. Will evolve and grow old gracefully over the next 10 if not 20 years.
94 Points

Passage Rock

Passage Rock Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Waiheke Island
A very distinctive and aromatic bouquet filled with the aromas of fresh white and yellow fruits, ripe citrus elements and a steely core of energy, a hint of lees and spice add complexity. On the palate - just dry, firm, fresh and vibrant palate of ripe grape fruit and red apple flavours, high acidity and slippery texture, the finish suggest more citrus peel and sweet hay moments, a steely core adds strength and attention to flavour, balanced and well made.
87 Points

Greywacke

Greywacke 'Wild Sauvignon' 2013 Marlborough
Powerfully aromatic with a bouquet of fresh and baked orchard fruits, wild honey and wild flowers; distinctive also with a mineral aspect from soil and wine making influences; complex. On the palate - lush, fruity, high impact and packed with flavour - reminders of wild honey and orchard fruits, crushed rocks and sweet hay; citrus and white peach lead the fruit flavours; plenty of acidity, lots of complexity, great balance and length.
92 Points

Mudbrick Vineyard

Mudbrick Vineyard reserve Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 Waiheke Island
Complex bouquet of Cabernet then Merlot aromas with bracken laced blackberry and tobacco leaf, baked bell-pepper then fresh and baked Doris plums; plenty of toasty oak and rocky earthy moments round out the bouquet. On the palate - full-bodied, rich in texture and flavours with blackberry and plum fruit flavours, dry, medium+ acidity, high (ish) tannins from the fruit and oak, hay, bell-pepper and tobacco moments. Lengthy finish, well made and destined for the dining table - decanted or cellared for a further 2-5 years.
91 Points

Mills Reef Winery

Mills Reef Winery Reserve Syrah 2014 Gimblett Gravels Hawke's Bay
Quite an alluring and sensual bouquet for Syrah with soft red berry fruits laced with sweet oak spices, vanilla and mild toasty qualities; juiced red plum, raspberry and a hint of English fruitcake or pudding. On the palate - dry, fruity, firm and fresh; flavours of plum and black fruits then old raspberry jam and white pepper; a touch of sweet meat and soft mushroom, moderate oak and plenty of chalky oak tannins add texture and length; medium+ complexity, balanced and well made.
90 Points

Chateau du Bourg

Chateau du Bourg Beaujolais-Villages 2014 Fleurie 
Bright, fresh, aromatic and very fruity with suggestions of strawberry, sweet cranberry and yellow plum. On the palate - crisp, fresh, fruity, simple, balanced and packed with the flavours of Summer red berries, medium+ acidity, very low tannin, super easy to drink and uber food friendly.
82 Points

Zephyr

Zephyr Pinot Noir 2014 Marlborough
Very bright with lots of ruby and purple hues; aromas of ripe red berry fruits: plum, cranberry red cherry, lots of red apple skin and easy oak tones. On the palate - plush, lush, fruity and dry; a youthful yet very tasty expression of Pinot Noir with plenty of red berry fruit flavours laced with gentle oak moments, fine easy almost silky tannins and plenty of acidity. Drink now and through 2017 or cellar for another year.
89 Points

Black Estate

Black Estate 'Damsteep' Pinot Noir 2014
Great colour and appearance with aromas of Summer - red flowers of rose, damson plum and sweet ripe raspberry and cherry, mineral tones and soft fragrant wood spices. On the palate - youthful, dry, fruity, soft dried herb and loaded with mineral messages; plenty of red cherry and red berry fruit flavours, medium to fine tannins, medium+ acidity and a lengthy finish; lovely balance and finish. Suitable for service today if decanted and rested or cellar for 2 more years minimum.
90 Points

Mudbrick Vineyard

Mudbrick Vineyard Syrah 2014 Waiheke Island
Intense bouquet of ripe red berry fruits - dark raspberry and Doris plum, blueberry and blackcurrant; heady, spicy, toasty and fragrant with plenty of oak and synergies between the oak, fruit and wine making. On the palate - intense, spicy, dry, warm and packed with pepper laced black fruit flavours; medium+ acidity and tannins add texture and energy; full-bodied, peppery and distinctive palate experience. Overall a very nice wine that is very youthful still and requires some cellar time of around 2-4 years before it should be approached again. Decant and rest for service.
90 Points

Brick Bay

Brick Bay Malbec 2012 Matakana
Dark berries, wild dark berries, wild florals and a core of ripe fruit make the bouquet of this wine significant and alluring mild to moderate oak spices with vanilla and toasty tones. On the palate - dry, firm, generous and fruity confirming the wild red berry fruits and firm to fine tannin structure; medium+ acidity adds texture, grip and finish. Well made example with some cellar time required to bring complete harmony - suggesting a minimum of 2 years.
90 Points

The Bone Line

The Bone Line Cabernet Franc 2014 Waipara
Fragrant and distinctive bouquet with a mix of dried herb, dried flowers and oak spices; then dark berry suggestions mainly blackberry and some old plum. On the palate - dry with some significant textures from firm youthful tannins and medium+ acidity; the dried herb, dried flower and spices return adding depth to the flavour and contrast to the dryness. Overall a very smart example that with some more time on bottle should prove to be a worthy investment.
88 Points

Mangaorapa Estate

Mangaorapa Estate Pinot Noir 2013 Southern Hawke's Bay
Lots of fruit intensity from ripe dark and cherry aromas, red apple skin, a little old strawberry jam suggestion; lots of barrel spice with toasty vanilla and some brown baking spices. On the palate - dry, firm, youthful, fruity and highly textured. Quite a youthful wine still with some dried herb flavours swimming against the flow of fruit; medium+ tannins quite fine with a mix of fruit and oak origin; overall a lovely example with plenty of length and charm. Well made.
90 Points

Moss Wood

Moss Wood 'Wilyabrup' Pinot Noir 2013 Margaret River
Varietal, tense and poised bouquet with red berry fruit aromas of black currant and plum then cherry; there's no mistaking the impact of oak with some new barrel tones then old barrel spice layers adding complexity and depth - a little forward. On the palate - dry, firm, youthful, fruity and oaky - all the components of fine wine are here - just more cellar time is required to bring these into balance; medium to fine tannins with some grippy moments - again just more cellar and bottle development required; Medium+ length and finish. Nice wine!
89 Points

Matawhero

Matawhero Pinot Rose 2015 Gisborne
Fruit lead bouquet with cherry and sweet plum aromas followed by a little silty mineral tones and fragrant week-old rose petal. On the palate - light creamy texture with medium to medium+ acidity; flavours of light red fruits and roses return along with a light nougat moment; off-dry with a little sweetness; balanced and well made; totally suited to Middle-Eastern and Asian fare as well as local game bird.
84 Points

Two Rivers

Two River of Marlborough 'L'ile De Beaute' Rose 2015 
Fresh, generous and oozing ripe light red fruit aromas - fresh red cherry, plum and strawberry; touch of red melon and rose petal. On the palate - just off dry with a little sweetness, lots of energised acidity and fruit flavours, very soft touch of tannin and a vibrant refreshing finish - what's not to like.
86 Points

Quartz Reef

Quartz Reef Bendigo Estate 2013 Pinot Noir Central Otago
Wow! Fragrant and buoyant aromas crushed minerals, dark red berry fruits, sweet violets, lightly spiced oak (perhaps some Mercury barrel) and organic feminine fragrances - complex, enticing and very sophisticated. On the palate - double wow! - everything the nose suggests and more, a complete palate experience with textures, flavours of wild berry fruits and spice floral and mineral nuances to tease out the palate; fine to chalky almost course tannins, medium+ acidity and a long complex finish. A very youthful example too with best drinking from 2017 through 2025. Love it!
97 Points