Mud House Sub-Region Series
Mud House Sauvignon Blanc 2016, Rapaura, Marlborough
Classic Marlborough SB bouquet, punchy and distinctive aromas of fresh herbs, nettles, box wood and tropical fruits; cold stone mineral and a hint of green bell-pepper. On the palate - punchy, crisp, fruity and dry on the finish; flavours of fresh herb, grapefruit and some tropical layers, bell-pepper and a hint of white pepper spice to finish. Lots to like - easy to drink.
90 Points
Mud House Pinot Gris 2016, Grovetown, Marlborough
Juicy, fleshy, ripe and packed with aromas of tree fruit with yellow apple, pear juice and honey. A light lees and pear skin layer add some depth. Follows through on the palate well with flavours of fresh apple and Asian pear, a hint of spice and mix of textures from smooth to lightly creamy, balanced and well made in a drink now style.
88 Points
Mud House Chardonnay 2015, Omaka, Marlborough
Full-bodied bouquet with aromas of toasty vanilla scented wood, roasted stone fruits, a nutty leesy complexity and familiar burnt butter & malo effect. On the palate - creamy texture with medium acidity and flavours of stone fruits, a hint of grapefruit then buttery vanilla oak moments; dry on the finish with medium+ complexity and length. Balanced and well made. Drink now and through 2018.
90 Points
Mud House Pinot Rosé 2016, Burleigh, Marlborough
Very fragrant, soft and gentle aromas of strawberry, cherry, plum and watermelon; a rose-hip layer adds depth to a clean and refreshing bouquet. On the palate - off dry with some residual sweetness emphasizing the ripe red berry fruit flavours and some rose; medium+ (ish) acidity and juicy moderate finish. Balanced and well made in a drink now or through Summer 2017 style.
88 Points
Mud House Pinot Noir 2015, The Narrows, Marlborough
Distinctive bouquet with plenty of Pinosity - dark cherry, plum, toasty and woody with roasted vanilla pod and a mix of newer oak scents; youthful, fresh and lively overall. On the palate - ripe, fruity, balanced and dry; flavours of plum and cherry fruits laced with toasty oak and vanilla, some brown baking spice moments, mild tannins and medium+ acidity. Drink and now and through 2020.
89 Points
Sunday, 27 November 2016
Invivo Wines
Graham Norton's Own Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Marlborough
Fragrant, varietal and loaded with ripe fruit aromas of passion-fruit, pineapple and apple nd freshhly crushed herbs. On the palate - fruity, juicy, fresh and lively with flavours that reflect the nose, plenty of electric acidity; light-weight and balanced finishing dry.
A much more approachable wine than the previous vintage.
88 Points
Fragrant, varietal and loaded with ripe fruit aromas of passion-fruit, pineapple and apple nd freshhly crushed herbs. On the palate - fruity, juicy, fresh and lively with flavours that reflect the nose, plenty of electric acidity; light-weight and balanced finishing dry.
A much more approachable wine than the previous vintage.
88 Points
12000 Miles
12000 Miles Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Gladstone (Wairarapa)
Fruity, fragrant and lush bouquet with ripe peach and lemon aromas, some grapefruit and honeysuckle moments. On the palate - fresh and lively wine with some fresh herb then citrus, peach and mild tropical fruit flavours; plenty of refreshing acidity leading to a decent, slightly tart finish.
87 Points
Fruity, fragrant and lush bouquet with ripe peach and lemon aromas, some grapefruit and honeysuckle moments. On the palate - fresh and lively wine with some fresh herb then citrus, peach and mild tropical fruit flavours; plenty of refreshing acidity leading to a decent, slightly tart finish.
87 Points
Gladstone Vineyard
Gladstone Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Wairarapa
Floral and fragrant bouquet of silty mineral earth, wild white flowers, honeysuckle then classic SB aromas of citrus, apple and grapefruit. On the palate - citrusy, peachy and firm with plenty of acidity and texture; layers of mineral and flowers return with a hint of spice leading into a fairly lengthy finish.
89 Points
Floral and fragrant bouquet of silty mineral earth, wild white flowers, honeysuckle then classic SB aromas of citrus, apple and grapefruit. On the palate - citrusy, peachy and firm with plenty of acidity and texture; layers of mineral and flowers return with a hint of spice leading into a fairly lengthy finish.
89 Points
Urlar
Urlar Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Gladstone (Wairarapa)
Wild flowers, honeysuckle, peach and sweet Meyer lemon, tones of herb and spice then silty mineral suggestions. On the palate - sweet herb, lemon and peach flavours, light spice layer, honeysuckle, quince and white flower. Light to medium weight and long finish; A delicious wine with complexity and poise.
94 Points
Wild flowers, honeysuckle, peach and sweet Meyer lemon, tones of herb and spice then silty mineral suggestions. On the palate - sweet herb, lemon and peach flavours, light spice layer, honeysuckle, quince and white flower. Light to medium weight and long finish; A delicious wine with complexity and poise.
94 Points
Jules Taylor
Jules Taylor SV OTQ (On the Quiet) Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Marlborough
I love the bouquet of this wine because it encapsulates the elements of mystery, ripe fruit, old barrel spice and mild nutty, almost burnt butter complexity; the aromas of peach and quince laced with grapefruit and river stone mineral is quite seductive. On the palate - dry, fruity, textured and packed with flavour - ripe peach, dried kitchen spice, soft nutty oak, a tease of vanilla, dry stone mineral, hay and wild honey moemnts. A lovely lengthy finish.
94 Points
I love the bouquet of this wine because it encapsulates the elements of mystery, ripe fruit, old barrel spice and mild nutty, almost burnt butter complexity; the aromas of peach and quince laced with grapefruit and river stone mineral is quite seductive. On the palate - dry, fruity, textured and packed with flavour - ripe peach, dried kitchen spice, soft nutty oak, a tease of vanilla, dry stone mineral, hay and wild honey moemnts. A lovely lengthy finish.
94 Points
Alluviale Wines
Alluviale Wines Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Marlborough
An intriguing bouquet with a softness and complexity to begin - then the volume goes up with pungent aromas of sweet spice and dried herb, apple and grapefruit and a light tropical fruit layer. On the palate - juicy, fresh, lush and salivating flavours of ripe citrus and tree fruits; a light spice layer and dried herbs turn fresh; lengthy, balanced and well made example.
94 Points
An intriguing bouquet with a softness and complexity to begin - then the volume goes up with pungent aromas of sweet spice and dried herb, apple and grapefruit and a light tropical fruit layer. On the palate - juicy, fresh, lush and salivating flavours of ripe citrus and tree fruits; a light spice layer and dried herbs turn fresh; lengthy, balanced and well made example.
94 Points
Tinpot Hut Wines
Tin Pot Hut Wines Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Marlborough
Distinctive, varietal bouquet with a slightly softer and rounder attack - fresh white fleshed fruits and citrus laced with a little spice and floral tones, steely mineral core. On the palate - crisp, fresh and dry with flavours of fresh picked herbs, white peach and grapefruit; plenty of acidity, medium to light weight and lengthy finish, great balance.
90 Points
Tin Pot Hut Wines Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Marlborough
Distinctive, intriguing and lush bouquet of sweet herbs, freshly squeezed tropical fruits, citrus and peach aromas. On the palate - vibrant, fresh, crisp and dry on the finish; flavours of citrus and tropical fruit are strong along with high acidity, some tension and poise leading into a lengthy finish. A lovely wine - perfect for Summer 2017 drinking.
92 Points
Distinctive, varietal bouquet with a slightly softer and rounder attack - fresh white fleshed fruits and citrus laced with a little spice and floral tones, steely mineral core. On the palate - crisp, fresh and dry with flavours of fresh picked herbs, white peach and grapefruit; plenty of acidity, medium to light weight and lengthy finish, great balance.
90 Points
Tin Pot Hut Wines Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Marlborough
Distinctive, intriguing and lush bouquet of sweet herbs, freshly squeezed tropical fruits, citrus and peach aromas. On the palate - vibrant, fresh, crisp and dry on the finish; flavours of citrus and tropical fruit are strong along with high acidity, some tension and poise leading into a lengthy finish. A lovely wine - perfect for Summer 2017 drinking.
92 Points
Villa Maria
Villa Maria Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Marlborough
Pungent and distinctive bouquet, floral, fruity and forward aromatics led by peach and red apple then grape fruit and tropical fruit layers. On the palate - crisp, fresh, fruity and lush with flavours of fresh fruits described above, plenty of crisp and palate quenching acidity and a longish finish, lovely balance, light weight and satisfying.
91 Points
Pungent and distinctive bouquet, floral, fruity and forward aromatics led by peach and red apple then grape fruit and tropical fruit layers. On the palate - crisp, fresh, fruity and lush with flavours of fresh fruits described above, plenty of crisp and palate quenching acidity and a longish finish, lovely balance, light weight and satisfying.
91 Points
Spy Valley
Spy Valley 'Easy Tiger' Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Marlborough
Pungent and powerful bouquet of classic old school Marlborugh SB with aromas and flavours of gooseberry and sweet hay, bell pepper and passionfruit; crisp and refreshing with high(ish) acidity, light weight, balnaced and well made with amoderate finish.
88 Points
Pungent and powerful bouquet of classic old school Marlborugh SB with aromas and flavours of gooseberry and sweet hay, bell pepper and passionfruit; crisp and refreshing with high(ish) acidity, light weight, balnaced and well made with amoderate finish.
88 Points
Spade Oak Vineyard
Spade Oak Vineyard Tempranillo Rosé 2015 Gisborne
Salmon-onion skin hues. A light and refreshingly fruity bouquet with aromas of yellow, plum, peach and apricot, some red apple tones and soft mineral layers. On the palate - juicy, fruity, creamy and soft, very fine tannin moment, plenty of acidity and freshness, lovely balance and finish. a lovely Summer wine option.
90 Points
Salmon-onion skin hues. A light and refreshingly fruity bouquet with aromas of yellow, plum, peach and apricot, some red apple tones and soft mineral layers. On the palate - juicy, fruity, creamy and soft, very fine tannin moment, plenty of acidity and freshness, lovely balance and finish. a lovely Summer wine option.
90 Points
Wednesday, 16 November 2016
Lauregan Wines
Lauregan Wines SV Pinot Noir 2013 Hawke's Bay
Bold dark red berry fruit aromas, an equal intensity of oak then dark cherry and plum, some black currant moments and dark kitchen spice oak layers - particularly clove then toasty wood. On the palate - equally bold with darker red berry fruit flavours, toasty oak and even a pepper note, a touch of savoury complexity. A dry wine with medium/medium+ tannins and acidity, flavours reflect the bouquet with plenty of power and length and flavour. A bold New World style with warmer climate attributes; also a youthful wine that would benefit from decanting for service or cellared then enjoyed from early 2018 through 2022.
89 Points
Bold dark red berry fruit aromas, an equal intensity of oak then dark cherry and plum, some black currant moments and dark kitchen spice oak layers - particularly clove then toasty wood. On the palate - equally bold with darker red berry fruit flavours, toasty oak and even a pepper note, a touch of savoury complexity. A dry wine with medium/medium+ tannins and acidity, flavours reflect the bouquet with plenty of power and length and flavour. A bold New World style with warmer climate attributes; also a youthful wine that would benefit from decanting for service or cellared then enjoyed from early 2018 through 2022.
89 Points
Osawa Wines
Osawa Wines Prestige Collection Pinot Noir 2013 Hawke's Bay
Fragrant, pretty, floral, soft and charming bouquet of light red fruits and rose florals; quietly complex, varietal and youthfully fruity. On the palate - equally youthul and fruity with red cherry, raspberry and plum flavours, medium oak tones with hints of clove sweet vanilla; a very pretty wine with fine silky tannins and medium+ acidity, balanced lengthy finish.
93 Points
Osawa Wines Prestige Collection Pinot Noir 2014 Hawke's Bay
Ripe and forward red berry fruit aromas with a broody, light savoury complexity, toasty oak tones and primary youthful aromatics swinging between oak and fruit. On the palate - darker cherry and raspberry fruit flavours, more toasty oak with vanilla and new wood tones, fine to moderate tannins and medium+ acidity leading to a dry and somewhat lengthy finish. A wine that needs more cellar time to integrate and evolve with the potential to become a fine example of Hawke's Bay Pinot Noir.
91Points
Fragrant, pretty, floral, soft and charming bouquet of light red fruits and rose florals; quietly complex, varietal and youthfully fruity. On the palate - equally youthul and fruity with red cherry, raspberry and plum flavours, medium oak tones with hints of clove sweet vanilla; a very pretty wine with fine silky tannins and medium+ acidity, balanced lengthy finish.
93 Points
Osawa Wines Prestige Collection Pinot Noir 2014 Hawke's Bay
Ripe and forward red berry fruit aromas with a broody, light savoury complexity, toasty oak tones and primary youthful aromatics swinging between oak and fruit. On the palate - darker cherry and raspberry fruit flavours, more toasty oak with vanilla and new wood tones, fine to moderate tannins and medium+ acidity leading to a dry and somewhat lengthy finish. A wine that needs more cellar time to integrate and evolve with the potential to become a fine example of Hawke's Bay Pinot Noir.
91Points
Monday, 14 November 2016
Gimblett Gravels Wine Growing District Annual Tasting
2014 marks the seventh release of the
Annual Gimblett Gravels Wine Growing District red wine release.
Twelve wines have been selected by Andrew Caillard MW
as being representative of the 2014 vintage.
Fantastic to be sent these wines for comment and review.
Overall scores and detailed tasting notes below.
93 Points - Trinity Hill 2014 'The Gimblett' Gimblett Gravels, Hawke's Bay
49% Cabernet Franc, 39% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, 3% Malbec
Concentrated,
fruity, enticing and packed with spice, oak and layers of stony mineral aromas;
blackberry, black currant, marmite, plum and chocolate, toasty oak with clove & vanilla, overall complex. On the palate – fruity, dry,
concentrated and flavourful red wine, fine to moderate concentrated tannins, dark spice
layers, medium+ acidity and fruity lengthy finish. A lovely example with great
balance and finish. Drink now and through 2024
94 Points - Villa Maria 2014 Reserve Merlot Gimblett Gravels, Hawke's Bay
Complex mix of ripe red berried fruits, crushed dark rose, heirloom Black Doris plum, some new wood and older barrel layers, chocolate and new leather, underscored by a dried stone earthiness. On the palate - a core of plum and black cherry fruit flavours, crushed dark rose and new wood bite with roasted clove and dark spice moments, medium+ to fine dusty/chalk tannins and medium+ acidity. A delicious wine with great length and harmony. Immediate drink-ability and cellar worthy attributes. Drink now if decanted or enjoy from 2018 through 2026.
95 Points - Squawking Magpie 'SQM' 2014 Cabernets Merlot Gimblett Gravels, Hawke's Bay
Calm yet complex bouquet, harmonious and enticing aromas of black berry and black currant, plum and violet, hints of new tobacco and toasted barrel & wood spices. On the palate - juicy, fleshy, fruity and packed with texture; tannins are chewy, fine and suggest both fruit and barrel origin, medium+ acidity and flavours of dark berry and plum stone fruit, new tobacco, bitter chocolate and light violet tones; long flavour packed finish. D through if decanted or enjoy from 2019 through 2030.
94 Points - Mission Estate Winery 'Jewelstone Antoine' Gimblett Gravels, Hawke's Bay
Merlot with Cabernets Sauvignon & Franc
Dark fruits, broody and textured bouquet - there's shape and form; then plum compote, blackberry and bitter chocolate, roasted bell-pepper and tobacco tones, wood spice and toasted barrel power; complex, youthful and quivering with energy. On the palate - youthful with plenty of palate textures from tense tannins and medium+ acidity; flavours of blackberry and plum then new leather and coffee bean, the oak plays a big role with plenty of new wood bite and barrel-aged impact; a lengthy and intense finish. Decant for service is a must with this wine or cellar then enjoy from 2019 through 2030.
96 Points - Craggy Range 'Sophia' Gimblett Gravels 2014, Hawke's Bay
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot
Sophisticated, complex, ripe fruited and intense with layers of primary red fruits suggesting fresh black plum and black currant, blackberries and kitchen spices, no mistaking the oak and tobacco-like nuances. On the palate - intense, youthful, primary and fresh; flavours of dark berries and plum compote, loud oak spices of clove and roasted vanilla pod, bold fresh and ripe tannins - showing an abundance of textures, medium+ acidity and a very lengthy finish. A delicious wine offering immediate drinking if decanted, best cellared to be enjoyed from 2019 through 2030.
94 Points - Anthony Joseph Vidal of Hawke's Bay Reserve Syrah 2014 Gimblett Gravels
Expressive and engaging bouquet of spice, primary red fruits and oak with aromas of fresh ground peppercorn, black currant and raspberry then toasty oak and associated wood spices. On the palate - juicy, fresh and delicious with flavours of currents and dark berries laced with pepper and wood spice, medium tannins and a back bone of acidity; toasty, woody, lengthy, great balance and poise. Drink now if decanted otherwise cellar and enjoy from 2018 through 2025.
96 Points - Trinity Hill 2014 Syrah Gimblett Gravels, Hawke's Bay
Intense, bold and slightly broody bouquet of dark currants and black berry fruits, plenty of freshly cracked black peppercorn, fresh new wood tones and a heady perfume of wild raspberry. On the palate - textures of tannin, acidity and wood surround by ripe primary red fruit flavours of black currant and dark raspberries; toasted vanilla, clove and brown baking spices; a youthful and engaging wine with a juicy red fruits core, medium to fine tannins and plenty of acidity. A lengthy finish ending as it began with a broody, bold and intense package of flavours and textures. Delicious to drink now if decanted, but perhaps best from 2018 through 2028.
97 Points - Esk Valley Winemakers Reserve Syrah 2014 Gimblett Gravels, Hawke's Bay
Immediately engaging bouquet with an intense core of ripe red and dark berry fruits laced with new oak and gravel/mineral tones, suggestions of violets and dark cherry as well as pepper and new leather, complex and inviting. On the palate - juicy, ripe, fresh and dry; flavours of dark berries and black cherry, pepper and a hint of jam, bold oak statement and an abundance of tannin and acidity. Very lengthy finish and great balance. Must decant if serving through 2017. Best window for enjoyment 2018 through 2026.
97 Points - Squawking Magpie 'Stoned Crow' 2014 Syrah, Gimblett Gravels, Hawke's Bay
Complex bouquet with suggestions of New and Old World styles - stony gravelly core cushioned against ripe and intense dark red fruits, black currant, black cherry and blue fruits, plenty of fresh new toasty oak with dark spice, fresh coffee bean and leather suggestions. On the palate - a juicy core of fruit, an engaging ripe red berry fruits, pepper and oak with spice and smoke tones adding complexity; plenty of tannins and acidity keeping the palate juices busy. A totally engaging expression with a lengthy finish.
97 Points - Craggy Range 'Le Sol' 2014 Syrah Gimblett Gravels, Hawke's Bay
Intense, ripe, smoky and rich in black fruit aromas with black currant and raspberry, then burnt rose and tarry oak suggestions, calm pepper tones; complex and very engaging. On the palate - equally rich and intense with smoky dark berry fruits, vanilla and clove wood tones, fleshy black currant and black cherry flavours, some black soft to moderate pepper tones, fine tannins and a back bone of acidity. A delicious wine and arguably the best I have encountered from the Craggy Syrah stable.
95 Points - William Murdoch 'Omine Secundo' Syrah 2014, Gimblett Gravels Hawke's Bay
Bold, broody and masculine bouquet with a medley of dark berries and of new and toasty smoky oak, dark spices of clove and vanilla, complex, earthy and engaging. On the palate - firm, youthful, peppery, smoky, dry and fruity. A wine just beginning to knit together; plenty of acidity and firm youthful tannins to soften against a background of ripe black and red berry fruit flavours, pepper and spice elements adding depth and complexity. Lengthy finish. Lovely wine to engage in from 2019 through 2029.
97 Points - Sacred Hill 'Deerstalkers' Syrah 2014 Gimblett Gravels, Hawke's Bay
Youthful, ripe, fruity and complex with a steely, haunting intensity; aromas of intense red currants, cherry and fresh raspberry, red and white peppercorn, new oak layer and soft brown spices. On the palate - firm, youthful, plenty of tension and texture, notable acidity and firm, ripe tannins, red and dark red berry fruit flavours, a sulphide note and gravelly soil layer, the oak is obvious though not a key feature putting more emphasis on the core of fruit, and texture. Lovely lengthy finish, a fine wine indeed.
Gimblett Gravels Wine Growing District Annual Tasting
2014 marks the seventh release of the
Annual Gimblett Gravels Wine Growing District red wine release.
Twelve wines have been selected by Andrew Caillard MW
as being representative of the 2014 vintage.
Fantastic to be sent these wines for comment and review.
Overall scores and detailed tasting notes below.
93 Points - Trinity Hill 2014 'The Gimblett' Gimblett Gravels, Hawke's Bay
49% Cabernet Franc, 39% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, 3% Malbec
Concentrated,
fruity, enticing and packed with spice, oak and layers of stony mineral aromas;
blackberry, black currant, marmite, plum and chocolate, toasty oak with clove & vanilla, overall complex. On the palate – fruity, dry,
concentrated and flavourful red wine, fine to moderate concentrated tannins, dark spice
layers, medium+ acidity and fruity lengthy finish. A lovely example with great
balance and finish. Drink now and through 2024
94 Points - Villa Maria 2014 Reserve Merlot Gimblett Gravels, Hawke's Bay
Complex mix of ripe red berried fruits, crushed dark rose, heirloom Black Doris plum, some new wood and older barrel layers, chocolate and new leather, underscored by a dried stone earthiness. On the palate - a core of plum and black cherry fruit flavours, crushed dark rose and new wood bite with roasted clove and dark spice moments, medium+ to fine dusty/chalk tannins and medium+ acidity. A delicious wine with great length and harmony. Immediate drink-ability and cellar worthy attributes. Drink now if decanted or enjoy from 2018 through 2026.
95 Points - Squawking Magpie 'SQM' 2014 Cabernets Merlot Gimblett Gravels, Hawke's Bay
Calm yet complex bouquet, harmonious and enticing aromas of black berry and black currant, plum and violet, hints of new tobacco and toasted barrel & wood spices. On the palate - juicy, fleshy, fruity and packed with texture; tannins are chewy, fine and suggest both fruit and barrel origin, medium+ acidity and flavours of dark berry and plum stone fruit, new tobacco, bitter chocolate and light violet tones; long flavour packed finish. D through if decanted or enjoy from 2019 through 2030.
94 Points - Mission Estate Winery 'Jewelstone Antoine' Gimblett Gravels, Hawke's Bay
Merlot with Cabernets Sauvignon & Franc
Dark fruits, broody and textured bouquet - there's shape and form; then plum compote, blackberry and bitter chocolate, roasted bell-pepper and tobacco tones, wood spice and toasted barrel power; complex, youthful and quivering with energy. On the palate - youthful with plenty of palate textures from tense tannins and medium+ acidity; flavours of blackberry and plum then new leather and coffee bean, the oak plays a big role with plenty of new wood bite and barrel-aged impact; a lengthy and intense finish. Decant for service is a must with this wine or cellar then enjoy from 2019 through 2030.
96 Points - Craggy Range 'Sophia' Gimblett Gravels 2014, Hawke's Bay
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot
Sophisticated, complex, ripe fruited and intense with layers of primary red fruits suggesting fresh black plum and black currant, blackberries and kitchen spices, no mistaking the oak and tobacco-like nuances. On the palate - intense, youthful, primary and fresh; flavours of dark berries and plum compote, loud oak spices of clove and roasted vanilla pod, bold fresh and ripe tannins - showing an abundance of textures, medium+ acidity and a very lengthy finish. A delicious wine offering immediate drinking if decanted, best cellared to be enjoyed from 2019 through 2030.
94 Points - Anthony Joseph Vidal of Hawke's Bay Reserve Syrah 2014 Gimblett Gravels
Expressive and engaging bouquet of spice, primary red fruits and oak with aromas of fresh ground peppercorn, black currant and raspberry then toasty oak and associated wood spices. On the palate - juicy, fresh and delicious with flavours of currents and dark berries laced with pepper and wood spice, medium tannins and a back bone of acidity; toasty, woody, lengthy, great balance and poise. Drink now if decanted otherwise cellar and enjoy from 2018 through 2025.
96 Points - Trinity Hill 2014 Syrah Gimblett Gravels, Hawke's Bay
Intense, bold and slightly broody bouquet of dark currants and black berry fruits, plenty of freshly cracked black peppercorn, fresh new wood tones and a heady perfume of wild raspberry. On the palate - textures of tannin, acidity and wood surround by ripe primary red fruit flavours of black currant and dark raspberries; toasted vanilla, clove and brown baking spices; a youthful and engaging wine with a juicy red fruits core, medium to fine tannins and plenty of acidity. A lengthy finish ending as it began with a broody, bold and intense package of flavours and textures. Delicious to drink now if decanted, but perhaps best from 2018 through 2028.
97 Points - Esk Valley Winemakers Reserve Syrah 2014 Gimblett Gravels, Hawke's Bay
Immediately engaging bouquet with an intense core of ripe red and dark berry fruits laced with new oak and gravel/mineral tones, suggestions of violets and dark cherry as well as pepper and new leather, complex and inviting. On the palate - juicy, ripe, fresh and dry; flavours of dark berries and black cherry, pepper and a hint of jam, bold oak statement and an abundance of tannin and acidity. Very lengthy finish and great balance. Must decant if serving through 2017. Best window for enjoyment 2018 through 2026.
97 Points - Squawking Magpie 'Stoned Crow' 2014 Syrah, Gimblett Gravels, Hawke's Bay
Complex bouquet with suggestions of New and Old World styles - stony gravelly core cushioned against ripe and intense dark red fruits, black currant, black cherry and blue fruits, plenty of fresh new toasty oak with dark spice, fresh coffee bean and leather suggestions. On the palate - a juicy core of fruit, an engaging ripe red berry fruits, pepper and oak with spice and smoke tones adding complexity; plenty of tannins and acidity keeping the palate juices busy. A totally engaging expression with a lengthy finish.
97 Points - Craggy Range 'Le Sol' 2014 Syrah Gimblett Gravels, Hawke's Bay
Intense, ripe, smoky and rich in black fruit aromas with black currant and raspberry, then burnt rose and tarry oak suggestions, calm pepper tones; complex and very engaging. On the palate - equally rich and intense with smoky dark berry fruits, vanilla and clove wood tones, fleshy black currant and black cherry flavours, some black soft to moderate pepper tones, fine tannins and a back bone of acidity. A delicious wine and arguably the best I have encountered from the Craggy Syrah stable.
95 Points - William Murdoch 'Omine Secundo' Syrah 2014, Gimblett Gravels Hawke's Bay
Bold, broody and masculine bouquet with a medley of dark berries and of new and toasty smoky oak, dark spices of clove and vanilla, complex, earthy and engaging. On the palate - firm, youthful, peppery, smoky, dry and fruity. A wine just beginning to knit together; plenty of acidity and firm youthful tannins to soften against a background of ripe black and red berry fruit flavours, pepper and spice elements adding depth and complexity. Lengthy finish. Lovely wine to engage in from 2019 through 2029.
97 Points - Sacred Hill 'Deerstalkers' Syrah 2014 Gimblett Gravels, Hawke's Bay
Youthful, ripe, fruity and complex with a steely, haunting intensity; aromas of intense red currants, cherry and fresh raspberry, red and white peppercorn, new oak layer and soft brown spices. On the palate - firm, youthful, plenty of tension and texture, notable acidity and firm, ripe tannins, red and dark red berry fruit flavours, a sulphide note and gravelly soil layer, the oak is obvious though not a key feature putting more emphasis on the core of fruit, and texture. Lovely lengthy finish, a fine wine indeed.
Wednesday, 2 November 2016
SOHO
SOHO 'Maren' Riesling 2013 Marlborough
Striking and very fragrant bouquet of red apple and citrus with mandarin and lime flower overtones, a touch of sherbet and a steely core of freshness. On the palate - just off-dry wiith some initial sweetness overshadowed by intense acidity allowing the wine to finish dry; delicious flavours of mandarin, lime, peach and white flowers, fine silky texture with abundant acidity and steely mineral tones. Drink now or through 2024.
93 Points
Striking and very fragrant bouquet of red apple and citrus with mandarin and lime flower overtones, a touch of sherbet and a steely core of freshness. On the palate - just off-dry wiith some initial sweetness overshadowed by intense acidity allowing the wine to finish dry; delicious flavours of mandarin, lime, peach and white flowers, fine silky texture with abundant acidity and steely mineral tones. Drink now or through 2024.
93 Points
Wild Grace Wines
Wild Grace Pinot Noir 2015 Central Otago
Varietal, fruity, forward and familiar Otago Pinot Noir bouquet with aromas of dark cherry and red apple skin, some wild thyme and dusty soil notes, moderate toasty oak layers with dark spice moments. On the palate - fruity, youthful, warm, textured and dry; dark berry fruit flavours, energised by warming alcohol, medium+ acidity, abundant tannins with silky, dusty and tense combinations. A tidy package, youthful, fresh and firm to the point of poise then releasing into a dry finish of medium+ length. Decant for service through 2017 or drink from 2018 through 2022.
90 Points
Varietal, fruity, forward and familiar Otago Pinot Noir bouquet with aromas of dark cherry and red apple skin, some wild thyme and dusty soil notes, moderate toasty oak layers with dark spice moments. On the palate - fruity, youthful, warm, textured and dry; dark berry fruit flavours, energised by warming alcohol, medium+ acidity, abundant tannins with silky, dusty and tense combinations. A tidy package, youthful, fresh and firm to the point of poise then releasing into a dry finish of medium+ length. Decant for service through 2017 or drink from 2018 through 2022.
90 Points
Kalex Wines
Kalex Wines 'Alex Kaufman' Pinot Noir 2014 Central Otago
Bold, fruity and familiar with a bouquet of darker red berry fruits, undergrowth and wild dried herb then a course stony mineral core; youthful with moderate+ complexity. On the palate - dry, fruity, some wild flowers and wild botannical moments then familiar red berry fruit flavours, firm textured tannins with silky moments, medium+ acidity and toasty oak layers. Overall a very nice wine that is quite youthful and tense needing some cellar time. Decant for service over the next 2 years. Best drinking window from 2019 through 2024.
90 Points
Bold, fruity and familiar with a bouquet of darker red berry fruits, undergrowth and wild dried herb then a course stony mineral core; youthful with moderate+ complexity. On the palate - dry, fruity, some wild flowers and wild botannical moments then familiar red berry fruit flavours, firm textured tannins with silky moments, medium+ acidity and toasty oak layers. Overall a very nice wine that is quite youthful and tense needing some cellar time. Decant for service over the next 2 years. Best drinking window from 2019 through 2024.
90 Points
Leheny Gibson
Leheny Gibson Chardonnay 2013 Yarra Valley (Australia)
A modern and engaging bouquet of Chardonnay with texture, shape and form as well as aromas of white peach and apple, some grapefruit, other citrus and flinty moments. On the palate - combinations of stone fruit and citrus flavours then new oak spices and flavour, great textures and structure from the acidity, alcohol and winemaking style whilst pushing the message of fruit and finish, a nutty cashew layer, softer vannilla notes and creamy lengthy finish. A lovely example. Drink now and through 2022.
92 Points
A modern and engaging bouquet of Chardonnay with texture, shape and form as well as aromas of white peach and apple, some grapefruit, other citrus and flinty moments. On the palate - combinations of stone fruit and citrus flavours then new oak spices and flavour, great textures and structure from the acidity, alcohol and winemaking style whilst pushing the message of fruit and finish, a nutty cashew layer, softer vannilla notes and creamy lengthy finish. A lovely example. Drink now and through 2022.
92 Points
Taylors Wines
Taylors Wines 'St Andrews' SV Chardonnay 2014 Clare Valley
Bold toasty and intense bouquet of Chardonnay - no mistaking the toasty oak layer emphasising vanilla, butterscotch and roasted stone fruits, additional oak spcies add depth and familiarity - an engaging package on the nose. On the palate - full-bodied, rich and totally recognisable falvours of Chardonnay with nutty tones of wood and winemaking, roasted stone fruits and vanilla, burnt butter and grapefruit. Lengthy oaky and fruity finish - what's not to like! Drink now and through 2019.
90 Points
Bold toasty and intense bouquet of Chardonnay - no mistaking the toasty oak layer emphasising vanilla, butterscotch and roasted stone fruits, additional oak spcies add depth and familiarity - an engaging package on the nose. On the palate - full-bodied, rich and totally recognisable falvours of Chardonnay with nutty tones of wood and winemaking, roasted stone fruits and vanilla, burnt butter and grapefruit. Lengthy oaky and fruity finish - what's not to like! Drink now and through 2019.
90 Points
Circuit
Circuit Pinot Gris 2016 North Canterbury
Produced and bottled by Black Estate Wines
Fragrant and alluring with wild white flowers and honeysuckle then familiar varietal moments of white tree fruits, spice and a little silty stony mineral and finally a gentle perfume. On the palate - generous, fruity, a light creamy texture and a light mealy tannin-like layer, flavours of white tree fruits and a touch of wild honeysuckle, the wine then settles into a classic varietal form leading to a moderate finish
90 Points
Produced and bottled by Black Estate Wines
Fragrant and alluring with wild white flowers and honeysuckle then familiar varietal moments of white tree fruits, spice and a little silty stony mineral and finally a gentle perfume. On the palate - generous, fruity, a light creamy texture and a light mealy tannin-like layer, flavours of white tree fruits and a touch of wild honeysuckle, the wine then settles into a classic varietal form leading to a moderate finish
90 Points
Urlar
Urlar Pinot Gris 2014 Gladstone Wairarapa
Delicious and engaging bouquet of ripe tree fruits with spice, mineral, honeysuckle and wild flowers. On the palate - tense, creamy, ripe, fruity, spicy and just dry; a lovely example with loads of texture and flavour, holds my attention and caresses the palate; varietal and lengthy.
92 Points
Delicious and engaging bouquet of ripe tree fruits with spice, mineral, honeysuckle and wild flowers. On the palate - tense, creamy, ripe, fruity, spicy and just dry; a lovely example with loads of texture and flavour, holds my attention and caresses the palate; varietal and lengthy.
92 Points
Jules Taylor Wines
Jules Taylor Wines Pinot Gris 2016 Marlborough
An engaging and fragrant bouquet of fruit, flowers and steely freshness: white fleshed tree fruits with apple and pear dominant then light fragrances of frangipane, a steely firm youthfulness follows. On the palate - firm, warm, fresh, fruity and just dry; a mix of white fleshed fruits and a little citrus with just warm alcohol and medium+ (ish) acidity, a light creamy texture and lengthy finish. Balanced and well made example. Drink now and through 2019.
89 Points
An engaging and fragrant bouquet of fruit, flowers and steely freshness: white fleshed tree fruits with apple and pear dominant then light fragrances of frangipane, a steely firm youthfulness follows. On the palate - firm, warm, fresh, fruity and just dry; a mix of white fleshed fruits and a little citrus with just warm alcohol and medium+ (ish) acidity, a light creamy texture and lengthy finish. Balanced and well made example. Drink now and through 2019.
89 Points
Wild Rock
Wild Rock Pinot Gris 2016 Marlborough
Classic bouquet of cool climate Gris with aromas of ripe white peach, juicy pear flesh and yellow apple, a hint of spice and steely cold stone mineral. On the palate - juicy, fleshy, very fruity and just dry with a little residual honeysuckle sweetness; flavours of the fruits described above - return, more white spice then warming alcohol. Overall a very nice wine, balanced and well made.
87 Points
Classic bouquet of cool climate Gris with aromas of ripe white peach, juicy pear flesh and yellow apple, a hint of spice and steely cold stone mineral. On the palate - juicy, fleshy, very fruity and just dry with a little residual honeysuckle sweetness; flavours of the fruits described above - return, more white spice then warming alcohol. Overall a very nice wine, balanced and well made.
87 Points
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