Vidal of Hawkes Bay

Vidal of Hawkes Bay ‘Legacy’ Chardonnay 2015

As with previous vintages a bouquet packed with impact from a flinty, varietal and oaky bouquet. The interaction between the use of sulphides and natural barrel fermentation techniques delivers an engaging aroma package and complexity. Flinty, white fleshed fruits, cashew and nutty oak layers. On the palate – dry, textured, layers of fruits and oak interaction with fine tannins and plenty of acidity. Complex and detailed finish. A wine for the long term. Drinkable now as well and through 2030.

95 Points

Yealands Estate

Yealands Estate ‘Land Made’ Pinot Noir 2016 Marlborough

Ripe red fruits bouquet with raspberry and darker cherry aromas; some baking spice moments and crushed red rose layer, some mineral highlights. Dry with a savoury edge, youthful, slightly firm tannins contrasted by red fruit flavours and acidity. A little more time is needed to integrate and find its mojo. Best from late 2018 through 2024.

88 Points

Yealands Family Wines ‘Premium Selection Good Company’ Pinot Noir 2016 Marlborough

Tart red fruits, red apple skin and red cherry aromas laced with a soft wood spice layer and vanilla oak scents. Youthful, firm and dry on the palate with flavours and textures that reflect the nose; fine tannins with a youthful bite and medium+ acidity. Starting to integrate requiring some cellar time. Best from late 2018 through 2024.

89 Points

Silver Fern

Silver Fern New Zealand Pinot Noir 2016 Marlborough

Fruity, varietal and attractive red fruits bouquet with cherry, red apple and cranberry aromas and a little baking spice oak layer. Light red fruit flavours with a cherry, cranberry and rhubarb layer, a simple expression with easy tannins, easy acid line and firm finish. Drink now and through 2020.

84 Points

Squawking Magpie

Squawking Magpie ‘The Chatterer’ Pinot Gris 2016 Hawkes Bay

Ripe, fruity, rich and spicy with a core of roasted yellow and white fruits – lees, honeysuckle and warmth complete the bouquet. A bolder, richer and dry style of Gris with texture, white fleshed fruits and citrus flavours, medium acidity and tangy finish. Drink now and through 2020. Well suited to food.

88 Points

Squawking Magpie Gimblett Gravels ‘The Gravels’ Syrah 2016

Ripe, varietal and very engaging core of red and black fruits with raspberry, black currant and sweet blueberry; a dense violet/floral layer and generous meaty quality. Dry, firm, full-bodied and rich in flavour. Dry with youthful and still integrating tannins alongside an back bone of acidity. Some peppery qualities and new oak frame this wine will age well also offering immediately drinkability wit the right food selection. Lengthy, varietal and engaging finish. Best from 2020 through 2030.

94 Points

Ruru

Ruru Reserve Pinot Gris 2017 Central Otago

Fragrant and quite pure aromas of Bosc pear and yellow apple, a floral and gentle white spice layer with a little crushed rock mineral. On the palate – a generous core of fruit, plenty of attractive acidity adding texture and contrast returning to flavours of white fleshed fruits and white spice, lengthy finish, balanced and well-made. Drink now and through 2022.

91 Points

Yealands

Yealands Premium Selection ‘Good Company’ Rosé 2017 Marlborough

A bouquet filled with aromas of red flowers and light red fruits – tart raspberry, red cherry and some cranberry suggestions. Crisp, fresh ad just dry on the palate, some light stony mineral moments and a floral gentle spice finish. Balanced and well-made. Drink now and through 2020.

89 Points

Mahi

Mahi 2017 Rosé Marlborough

Cherries, plums, rose and wild flowers, some bing cherry and peach aromas as well. On the palate – dry, loads of tension and poise, wild flowers, light red fruit flavours and plenty of acidity. A love example with poise, some tension and stony mineral finish. Drink now and through 2020.

91 Points

Ostler

Ostler ‘The Cleavage Rosé’ 2017 Waitaki Valley, North Otago

Very fruity, plush, ripe and inviting bouquet. Aromas of sweet red melon, strawberry and red cherry, a soft peach and spice layer adding depth and complexity. On the palate – equally fruity with some tension building acidity and very fine tannins adding in a chalky texture. Juicy finish. Drink now and through 2019.

89 Points

Akarua

Akarua Vintage Brut 2011 Bannockburn, Central Otago

An elegant and complex bouquet with aromas of white fleshed fruits, red and green apple, some lemon, mineral and floral highlight. Crisp, dry, full-bodied and elegant. A wine that is beginning to show the benefits of time in bottle developing complex flavours, a developing toasty lees based layer while maintaining a youthful texture and lengthy finish. Drink now and through 2025.

94 Points

Samuel’s Gorge

Samuel’s Gorge Grenache 2015 McLaren Vale, South Australia

Plums, clay, iron, red and blue fruits, tea. On the palate – dry, quite complex and layered with slowly emerging flavours of sweet and dry plum, old roses and iron. Fine tannins – integrating well, moderate acidity and length. Balanced and well made for early drinking – enjoy now and through 2020.

88 Points

Samuel’s Gorge Tempranillo 2014 McLaren Vale, South Australia

Varietal, somewhat jammy and floral with a natural VA lift and aromas of dark berries, some sweet meats, baked goods and dark baking spices. On the palate – dry, kitchen spices, dark berries, some meaty notes and fine to moderate tannins. Medium acidity, balanced and made to enjoy now and through 2020.

87 Points

Samuel’s Gorge Grenache 2015 McLaren Vale, South Australia

Sadly couldn’t taste – example corked.

Black Estate

Black Estate ‘Treble Rosé’ 2017 North Canterbury

Made with 5 varieties there’s no mistaking the impact and complexity on the nose with aromas and flavours of red berries, red apple, ginger and kombucha. Crushed red cherries and rose petals. With a whole bunch approach in much of the co-fermentation – the savoury and fine tannins add both flavours and textures. Fine tannins, medium+ acidity. A lovely expression with flavour, impact and length. Enjoy now and through 2019.

92 Points

Baby Doll

Baby Doll Rosé 2017 Marlborough

Fruity and appealing bouquet of light red fruits with bing cherry, strawberry and some water melon. Quite floral too with a rose scent. Lush, fruity and fleshy with an off-dry finish, medium+ acidity and moderate finish. Well made – as always; drink now and through 2018.

87 Points

Selaks

Selaks ‘The Taste Collection’ Rosé 2017 Hawkes Bay

Very fruity bouquet with an abundance of strawberry and red cherry aromas, plenty of red apple and peach. Fruity, creamy, lush and fleshy textures with medium+ acidity and a fine chalky texture on the finish. Balanced and well made. Drink now and through 2019.

88 Points

Ruru

Ruru Rosé 2017 central Otago

Made from 100% Pinot Noir with a bouquet of light red fruits, red apple skin and sweet rose. A chilled peach tea moment. Silky texture, fruity, crisp, refreshing and dry.  A layer of very fine fruit tannins along with ripe acidity adds to the texture and finish. A lovely example – balanced and well made. Drink now and through 2019.

89 Points

Ruru Gewurztraminer 2017 Central Otago

Fresh, lively and enticing with perfumed varietal aromas of fresh red apple, white peach, sweet lemon, rose and fresh lychee. Just off-dry on the palate with delicate flavours of rose, plush and juicy white fleshed fruits, citrus, apple, pears and a little tropical fruit punch. Medium acidity – ripe, fresh and crisp. Balanced and well made – a lovely example. Drink now and through 2020.

93 Points

Mills Reef Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2017 Hawkes Bay

Vibrant, measure yet quite intense bouquet with aromas of sweet herb, ripe cape gooseberry, baked lemon, some tropical fruits led by pineapple, some spice and lees action. Dry on the palate with medium+ acidity, quite lush in texture with some tension from the acidity accentuated from the lees and spice layers. Lengthy finish and a decent drink on its own or with food. Best from early 2018 through 2022.

89 Points

Mills Reef Winery Reserve Chardonnay 2016

Bold, rich scents of ripe fruit and oak. Baked peaches, apricots, apples with a grapefruit and sweet white flower scent. Dry, loaded with textures of silk and cream and flavours of dairy, ripe yellow stone fruits and apple. Vanilla and other baking spices show off the new oak. Moderate tannins and plenty of acidity, lovely lengthy finish. Still youthful. Best from 2019 through 2029.

93 Points

Eaton

Eaton Merlot Malbec Cabernet 2015 Marlborough

Savoury, earthy, fruity and quite complex with aromas of tobacco, bell-pepper, plum, black currant and chocolate. Plenty of other wood-like aromas with a dried vanilla and clove layer. On the palate – dry, flavours reflect the bouquet along with wood spices, brown kitchen spices, plenty of tannins and acidity to match. Youthful still with plenty of energy and vibrato. Best from late 2018 through 2026.

92 Points

Bodegas Tridente

Bodegas Tridente ‘Entresuelos’ Tempranillo 2014 Castilla Y Leon, Spain

Dark berries, earthy tones, a core of plum and blackberry, dark spices of clove and vanilla, some cinnamon and cedar. Dry, savoury, fruity and textured with moderate tannins, plenty of woodiness showing off the vanilla and clove tones, quite earthy with a clay and dry-stone idea. Fairly lengthy finish, balanced and well made. Drink now and through 2020.

90 Points

Tohu

Tohu Single Vineyard Pinot Noir 2016 Marlborough

Complex bouquet, very alluring and detailed with aromas of spice, ripe red fruits, oak and minerality. Dark cherry, red cherry, plum, n\baked raspberry and red apple skin. Tea, vanilla, clove and dried herb layer adds complexity and texture to the bouquet. On the palate – dry, abundant fine tannins and acidity to match, flavours are beginning to meld together creating synergy and texture. Lengthy finish. This wine will continue to evolve and reward those who invest. Best from now through 2026.

94 Points

Tohu Chardonnay 2016 Marlborough

Enticingly fruity with a creamy texture to the bouquet, aromas of yellow and white peach, lemon and quince. Additional aromas of French vanilla, blossoms and white chalk. On the palate – dry, loaded with flavours of lemon and grapefruit then peach and red apple; floral and mineral too with a white chalk and wet stone suggestions; moderate+ woodiness and plenty of contrasting acidity; balanced though still integrating, well made. Drink from 2018 through 2025.

94 Points

Tohu ‘Rewa’ Blanc de Blanc 2014 Marlborough

Floral, fruity, very elegant and youthful with aromas of white fleshed fruit and citrus, red apple, biscuit leesy qualities and a pure mineral undertone. Dry, complex and very engaging flavours on the palate reflecting what the nose suggests as well as a vibrant texture from some bottle development and high acidity. A lovely wine, great balance and length.

95 Points

Silver Fern

Silver Fern New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc 2017 Marlborough

Fruity, fleshy and gently herbaceous bouquet with aromas and flavours of red apple and passionfruit, some sweet lemon and fresh herbs. Just dry on the palate with a little residual sweetness, medium+ acidity and many of the classic moments one expects from NZ SB. Drink now and through 2018.

86 Points

Silver Fern New Zealand Pinot Gris 2016 Marlborough

Fruity, gentle and forward with some ripe tree fruit aromas of pears and yellow apples, a little floral moment and softly spoken white spice. The softness follows through on the palate with a calm silky texture, medium acidity and finish. Flavours reflect all that the nose suggests. Drink now and through 2018.

85 Points

Silver Fern New Zealand Pinot Gris 2017 Marlborough

Fruity, quite vrinrant, varietal and refreshing bouquet of Gris with aromas and flavours bosc pear and apple, some white flower notes and white pepper, a light tropical note of fresh lychee adds some depth. Equally fresh on the palate with ripe fruit flavours and contrasting acidity. Drink now and through 2019.

88 Points

Yealands Estate

Yealands Estate ‘Land Made’ Rosé 2017 Marlborough

Lots of ripe light red fruit aromas and flavours with sweet strawberry, tart raspberry some melon and roses. Crisp, refreshing and just dry on the palate, plenty of acidity and a crisp refreshing finish. Balanced and well made. Drink now and through 2018.

89 Points

Clearwater Cove

Clearwater Cove (by Peter Yealands) Pinot Gris 2016 Marlborough

Fruity, varietal, fresh and crisp almost pure aromas of Gris with ripe pear and red apple, a Meyer lemon note and gentle white spice. Juicy and flashy textures on the palate with flavours that match the nose, contrasting acidity to a light residual sweetness moment. Drink now and through 2019.  

88 Points

Clearwater Cove (by Peter Yealands) Sauvignon Blanc 2017 Marlborough

Fruity and quite pungent with aromas and flavours of tropical fruits and a little citrus, quite herbaceous and juicy. Passionfruit and mango, some lemon and green apple. Juicy texture with plenty of acidity and a little residual sweetness. Balanced and well made. Drink now and through 2018.

88 Points

Clearwater Cove (by Peter Yealands) Rosé 2017 Marlborough

Light, crisp and quite a pungent bouquet with aromas of water melon, strawberry and fresh green herbs; some chilled peach tea notes and light rose layer. Crisp, juicy, fleshy and just dry on the palate. Flavours reflect the nose – a very easy drinking expression. Enjoy now and through 2018.

86 Points

Clearwater Cove (by Peter Yealands) Pinot Noir 2016 South Island

Ripe light red fruited bouquet with aromas and flavours of dark red cherry, some plum and raspberry; a light toasty oak layer adds some depth and complexity. Fruity, just dry and very easy to drink with fine tannins, contrasting acidity and flavours centering on vanilla, cherry and plum. Moderate length and balanced. Drink now and through 2019.

87 Points

Squawking Magpie

Squawking Magpie Gimblett Gravels ‘Stoned Crow’ Syrah 2013

Intensely fruity and equally varietal with aromas of black and blue fruits, baked raspberry and freshly ground dark spices. No mistaking the oak though measured and well placed. Dry on the palate with lush and ripe red fruit flavours – black cherry, dark plum, blue and black berry. Some meaty earthy and field mushroom nuances; youthful ripe tannins and plenty of acidity. Lengthy memorable finish. Drink from 2018 through 2028.

94 Points

Mudhouse

Mudhouse 2017 Sauvignon Blanc Woolshed Vineyard Marlborough

Ripe, vibrant and engaging bouquet of SB with aromas and flavours of crunchy red and green apples, lemon and sweet grapefruit then tropical fruit and some sweet herbs. Very crunchy and fresh on the palate with punchy acidity highlighting the citrus flavours, some wet stone mineral and spice. Youthful and vibrant - drink now and through 2020.

92 points

Aronui

Aronui SV Pinot Noir 2015 Nelson

Very fruity, youthful and vibrant bouquet of Pinot Noir with aromas of crunchy red cherry and berry fruits; dark raspberry and sweet red plum suggestions; some toasty oak and vanilla scents emerge with a light silty mineral undertone. On the palate – dry, crunchy, firmly textured and youthful; moderate tannins are contrasted by lively acidity; flavours or red berries, cranberry, cherry and raspberry, a light red apple note then a return to mineral and toasty oak – but well placed and not too much. A nice example of a Pinot slowly knitting flavours and textures together. Best from 2018 through 2026.

92 Points

Aronui Chardonnay 2015 nelson

Strong bouquet of chardonnay with loads of vanilla and peach scents, red apple, some quince and silty chalk-like mineral notes. Some obvious woodiness, youthful and engaging complexity. Dry, almost full-bodied, flavours of peaches and red apple, some quince and apricot, vanilla and fresh oak-wood. Fine tannins and plenty of acidity, balanced, youthful, well-made. Drink now and through 2024.

90 Points

Mount Edward

Mount Edward Chardonnay 2016 Central Otago

An elegant, calm yet sophisticated bouquet with a collective aroma of and flavour package: grapefruit and lemon, white peach and apple; a layer of raw cashew nut oak with softly spoken oak moments. On the palate -  crisp, dry, firm, youthful texture with plenty of acidity; medium+ weight, balanced alcohol and lengthy finish. This wine will continue to integrate and develop flavours while holding onto the acid line and tension from oak. Best from late 2018 through 2026.

92 Points

Mount Edward Pinot Noir 2015 Central Otago

Distinctive, fresh, vibrant and youthful bouquet with aromas and flavours wild red berries and flowers with raspberry, cherry, red apple and a little cranberry. Mineral undertone of crushed rock then scents of oak and brown spices emerge.  Fine tannins and youthful acidity frame the red fruit flavours with tension and poise from the oak adds depth and length. Still developing flavours and finer textures this Pinot will age well. Best from late 2018 through 2028.

93 Points

Mount Edward Gruner Veltliner 2016 Central Otago

Varietal and gently fragrant with scents of white flowers and citrus fruits then classic sweet herb and radish-like moments. Crisp, dry, refreshing and pure with flavours of citrus, radish, snow pea and pineapple; tension and poise are evident through the texture, balanced, lengthy and memorable. Drink now and through 2022.

91 Points

Mills Reef Winery

Mills Reef Winery Reserve Syrah 2016 Hawkes Bay

Fabulous bouquet of ripe red berry fruits with blueberry, raspberry and black cherry; a grind of fresh pepper and deep floral undertones, inviting and quite complex. On the palate – fruity, dry, almost full-bodied and quite flavourful with peppery black and blueberry, plum and baked raspberry. Moderate tannins, medium+ acidity and lengthy finish. A decent expression of Syrah with a fairly lengthy finish and lasting impression. Best from 2018 through 2025.

91 Points

Circuit

Circuit Pinot Gris 2017 North Canterbury

Made by Black Estate – showing a bouquet of wild flowers, a leesy yeasty layer, peach, old lemon and apple. On the palate – just dry, fruity and complex with flavours that show-off a wine outside the  ‘new world’ conventional expression of Gris showing a more textured leesy side then white fruits and wold flowers; a natural wine expression with intriguing and flavourful outcomes. Drink now and through 2022.

90 Points

The Landing

The Landing Pinot Gris 2017 Bay of Islands Northland

Fruity, forward and varietal bouquet of apples and pears, some tangerine and Meyer lemon; a little spice and floral moments. On the palate – off dry with a little residual sweetness – adds a creamy texture; medium acidity and moderate alcohol. Flavours reflect the nose with a balanced moderate finish. Well-made with decent drinking from now and through 2020.

88 Points

The Landing Syrah 2014 Bay of Islands, Northland

Ripe, almost jammy baked red fruits bouquet with blackberry and Doris plum, raspberry and spices, a little sweet meat and new leather. On the palate – fruity, dry, some tense velvety tannins and medium+ acidity. Flavours of black and baked red fruits, violets and peppery sweet meat. Youthful still and plenty of development time remains. Best from late 2018 through 2026.

90 Points

The Landing Chardonnay 2015 Bay of Islands, Northland

Many familiar aromas of Chardonnay with a ripe toasty bouquet packed with aromas of peaches, nectarines , baked citrus and a hint of banana; a nutty-cashew toasty oak layer adds depth with a light burnt butter/butterscotch note. Bold, full-bodied, dry and distinctive on the palate, flavours reflect the nose, plus warming alcohol, medium+ (ish) acidity, creamy texture and a bite of oak tannin. Youthful, engaging and tasty. Drink now and through 2025.

92 Points

The Landing Chardonnay 2016 Bay of Islands, Northland

Plush, fruity and very engaging bouquet of chardonnay with a mix of ripe and fleshy stone fruit, a little grapefruit peel and a leesy, toasty oak appeal. A sense of complexity builds as the wine opens up in glass. Dry, tense, youthful, dry, just creamy texture contrasted by by acidity and oak bite. Flavours of fruits reflect the nose plus vanilla, oak wood, butter and brazil nut. Lengthy finish, needs some more cellar-time. Best from 2019 through 2029.

93 Points

The Darling

The Darling ‘Little Darling’ Organic Pinot Gris 2017 Marlborough

Intriguing bouquet of wild flowers and honeysuckle then ripe pear and apple fruits, a hint of white spice and minerality. On the palate – textured, crisp and dry with flavours that reflect the nose plus citrus and spice, a light salty note, plenty of acidity and medium length. A wine showing development potential with poise and charm. Drink from early 2018 through 2022.

89 Points

Selaks

Selaks ‘The Taste Collection Luscious’ Pinot Gris 2017 Hawkes Bay

Varietal and fruity bouquet with aromas and flavours of white fleshed stone fruits then yellow apple and a little spice. Plenty of weight on the palate with a little residual sweetness and warming alcohol. Overall a balanced and well-made wine featuring the best of Pinot Gris’s aromas and flavours. Drink now and through 2020.

88 Points

Archangel

Archangel ‘Halina’ Riesling 2014 Central Otago

Floral, fruity and distinctive bouquet showing off aromas of kaffir-lime and green apple then a little mandarin and rose. On the palate – off dry with some initial residual sweetness adding some silky texture; this gives way to contrasting and focused acidity then flavours of citrus and white peach. Balanced, youthful and fairly lengthy finish. Drink now and through 2024.

88 Points

Archangel ‘Stefania Riesling 2015 Central Otago

Lush, floral and fruity bouquet with sweet rose, mandarin, Kaffir lime and both red and green apple aromas, quite pure and alluring overall. On the palate – tense, crisp, firm, youthful and dry. Flavours of apples and lemon zest, green mandarin and firm peach; plenty of acidity adds tension and texture. A lovely wine still in throws of development. Best from 2019 through 2026.

89 Points

Measure & Guess

Measure & Guess Sauvignon Blanc 2017 Marlborough

Pungent, grassy, herbaceous and fruity with aromas and flavours of basil, lemon, peaches and apples. A soft and slightly creamy texture adds weight on the palate, medium+ acidity and moderate finish. Very approachable style with immediate drinkability. Enjoy from now and through 2018.

85 Points

Tohu

Tohu Pinot Rose 2017 Nelson

Plush, juicy and generous red fruited bouquet - with red cherry and red apple, some strawberry and rose moments. On the palate – equally fresh and lively with loads of red cherry and red apple skin flavours along with a touch of raspberry; some very fine tannins and medium+ acidity. A refresh, fruity and food friendly as well as drink on its own style. Enjoy now and through 2019.

89 Points

Mahi

Mahi Pinot Gris 2017 Marlborough

Alluring bouquet of ripe fruit, spices and flowers with Asian pear, yellow apple, white pepper and a salty minerality, inviting and quite complex. On the palate – with a dry finish there’s a distinctive fruity core with white fleshed fruits and spice; warming alcohol, medium acidity and lush textures; balanced and well made. Drink now and through 2022.

90 Points

Crossroads

Crossroads ‘Milestone Series’ Sauvignon Blanc 2017 Marlborough

Pungent, forward and distinctively Marlborough SB bouquet with fresh herbs, cut grass and tropical fruits leading the aroma package; grape fruit and green apple follow; some jalapeno and spice. On the palate – equally powerful with crisp salivating acidity, moderate alcohol and weight; all the flavours described above add to the impact and textures. Drink now and through 2020.

88 Points

Tiki Estate

Tiki Estate Pinot Gris 2016 Waipara North Canterbury

Aromas and flavours of sweet ripe pears and peaches, honeysuckle and red apple, some lees and white spices. Creamy, lush, ripe and off-dry with honeysuckle and warming alcohol contrasted by acidity and flavour impact. Great balance and length – a lovely wine. Drink now and through 2020.

89 Points

Black Estate

Black Estate ‘Damsteep’ Riesling 2016 North Canterbury

Very expressive and distinctively individual bouquet with aromas of lees, beer, ginger, baked lime and lemon, pressed flowers and manuka honey. On the palate – dry, ripe and textured with plenty of acidity and lees derived teasers; flavours of sweet lime and lemon, honey and lees. Long finish – a lovely wine. Different yet delightful. Best from now and through 2022.

92 Points

Te Awa

Te Awa Single Estate Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 Gimblett Gravels, Hawkes Bay

Ripe, bold, oaky, black fruits of sweet Doris plum and blackberry; toasted brown spices, some meaty fleshy dark berry aromas, concentrated and complex as well as youthful. On the palate – dry, youthful, fruity, firm textures and lengthy on the finish. Flavours of dark berries and dark plums, firm tannins and fresh acidity. A great example of Hawkes Bay red wine; needs cellar time for sure. Best from 2020 through 2035.

94 Points

Villa Maria

Villa Maria Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2014 Gimblett Gravels, Hawkes Bay

Dark berries, chocolate, sweet tobacco, toasty oak barrel, graphite and dark plum scents lead the bouquet. On the palate – youthful, firm textures, ripe, dry, noticeable tannins and acidity reinforce the need for more cellar time. Flavours of dark berries and plums, toasty wood and dark spices. Mid-palate concentration adds depth and intensity to a boldly structured wine. Long finish. Best from 2020 through 2030+

95 Points

Church Road

Church Road ‘McDonald Series’ Merlot 2014 Hawkes Bay

Fruity, plenty of oak and packed with aromas and flavours of Doris plums, baked plums, black cherry and dark spices of oak with cloves and vanilla. Ripe and tart raspberry moments accentuated by the acidity; fine to moderate tannins accentuated by toasty oak, dry, balanced and well-made. Drink now and through 2022.

88 Points

Sacred Hill

Sacred Hill ‘Deer Stalkers’ Syrah 2014 Hawkes Bay

Bold, ripe, very toasty and fruity with aromas of smoked meats, smoked wood and smoked fruits; baked raspberry, black cherry, raw cacao and sweet black pepper. On the palate – dry, fruity, young, bold, plenty of tannins and acidity contrasted by a ripe core of fruit; lengthy finish, very intriguing expression. Drink now and through 2028.

94 Points

Craggy Range

Craggy Range SV Syrah 2014 Hawkes Bay

Opaque appearance, broody – dark and stormy – aromas of baked raspberry, dark plum and blueberry. Additional aromas include sweet meat and spices, baked mushroom then plenty of new toasty wood smells with cloves and vanilla. On the palate – Dry, fruity, spicy, war, Flavours of dark berries and spiced meats, plenty of oak, but not too much. Moderate tannins with a fine youthful texture, medium+ acidity, great balance and length, bold and masculine. Drink now and through 2024.

93 Points

Craggy Range ‘Te Kahu’ SV Merlot/CS/Malbec/CF 2014 Gimblett Gravels Vineyard, Hawkes Bay

Very expressive bouquet of dark red berry fruits laced with sweet toasty oak; plums, black and blue fruits, some violets notes and gentle dried herbs. On the palate – dry, very fruity with dark berries and sweet black cherry, fine tannin structure and balanced acidity, dark spices of oak and toasty wood moments. Overall a very nice wine – balanced and well-made with a decent finish and length. Drink now and through 2026.

91 Points

Measure & Guess

Measure & Guess Pinot Noir 2017 Hawkes Bay

Fruity and ripe bouquet with aromas of plum and raspberry, mild oak and brown spice scents; forward and inviting. On the palate – dry and fruity with plums and red berry fruit, firm texture with acidity and tannins driving the palate. Shortish finish, overall okay. Drink now and through 2018.

84 Points

Peregrine Wines

Peregrine Wines ‘Saddleback’ Pinot Noir 2016 central Otago

Ripe, fruity, minerally and alluring aromas of red berry fruit, almost sweet spiced French Oak, rock mineral and a raspberry, red cherry & red apple. On the palate – dry, medium+ acidity; flavours of red berry fruits, plum and sour raspberry; fine to moderate tannins add texture and weight leading to a moderate lengthy finish. Nicely balanced and youthful still. Best drinking from now and through 2024.

89 Points

Gladstone Vineyard

Gladstone Vineyard Pinot Noir 2015 Wairarapa

Ripe, attractive bouquet with Pinosity and charm; aromas include ripe red cherry and strawberry tones, vanilla and mild toasty oak, a sweet raw sugar note and sweet rose. On the palate – dry, fine tannins and medium acidity; flavours of brown spices surround ripe red fruits of cherry, plum and raspberry. Best from now and through 2026.

91 Points

12,000 Miles

12,000 Miles Pinot Noir 2015 Gladstone, Wairarapa

Fruity, ripe and varietal Pinot Noir bouquet with ripe red cherry and raspberry/strawberry aromas, mild toasty oak layer with some kitchen spices from toasted oak. On the palate – fruity with a cherry, raspberry and date flavour combination; fine tannins and moderate acidity; balanced, well-made and ready. Drink now and through 2022.

88 Points

Archangel

Archangel Pinot Gris 2015 Central Otago

Ripe, fruity and vibrant bouquet with a creamy rounded texture to the aromas; spiced pear and yellow apple, some honeysuckle and lees residue showing a little ginger and beer note (nice). Om\n the palate – just dry with flavours of mixed white fleshed fruits a citrus bite and firm texture. Quite youthful still and developing secondary flavours. Drink now and through 2021.

89 Points

Archangel Chardonnay 2016 Central Otago

Bold and expressive bouquet with a nutty, cream, butterscotch and popcorn beginning; baked apricot, peach and nectarine fruits follow, vanilla and oak wood tones. On the palate – dry, full-bodied, almost creamy texture and plenty of flavour reflect everything the nose suggests. Some fine wood tannins adding in texture, medium acidity and finish. Still quite a youthful example and requires some continued cellar time. Best from late 2018 through 2026.

90 Points

Archangel Pinot Noir 2013 Central Otago

Distinctive and familiar bouquet of Pinot Noir with dark red cherry fruit and wild raspberry aromas; an oak and mineral combination with vanilla and dark spices, toasty French oak and wild thyme. On the palate – firm, youthful, dry reflecting flavours suggested on the nose, abundant tannins with a firm texture adding nervous energy, plenty of acidity and length generated by the package of attributes. Drinking best from late 2018 through 2028.

92 Points

Hunter’s

Hunter’s Sauvignon Blanc 2017 Marlborough

Pungent, ripe and distinctively SB with aromas and flavours of tropical fruits then cape gooseberry, grapefruit, golden kiwi and apple; grassy/herbaceous and stony. Just dry on the palate with lush salivating acidity, light+ to medium weight, fresh and crunchy finish carrying all the flavours described above. Drink now and through 2020.

89 Points

Hunter’s Riesling 2017 Marlborough

Floral and fruity with a honeysuckle, white rose and ginger spice layer – then a varietal signature of sweet apple and citrus fruits, a touch of mandarin. On the palate – fleshy, ripe and packed with flavours of citrus and apple, some rose and mineral; just dry with a lick of residual sugar, high acidity, fresh and quite lengthy. Drink now and through 2028.

88 Points

Hunter’s Pinot Gris 2017 Marlborough

Classic bouquet of Gris with fleshy wet pear, White fleshed nectarine and honeysuckle laced red apple; just a whisper of white spice. On the palate – lush, fresh, fruity and off-dry with a little residual sweetness contrasting the warming alcohol; flavours reflect the nose with a plush and silky texture, medium+ acidity and nice flavourful finish. Balanced and well made. Drink now and through 2020.

88 Points

Hunter’s Gewurztraminer 2017 Marlborough

Bold spicy and fruity attack with aromas and flavours of fresh and poached white fruit – apples, pears, lychee and some citrus peel; rose and spices show off the variety. Off-dry with a little residual sweetness contrasted by spiciness and sweet herbs then some phenolics adding in a texture of youth and firmness. Overall very nice. Drink now and through 2021.

88 Points

Hunter’s ‘Jane Hunter’ Pinot Noir 2015 Marlborough

Fruity varietal bouquet with aromas of sweet red cherry and red apple skin; some cranberry and wild strawberry layered in, fine oak notes and developing complexity. On the palate – dry and also quite fruity with flavours of wild raspberry, red cherry and red apple; a dry stone mineral note, fine tannins and plenty of acidity. Balanced and well-made. Best drinking from now and through 2024.

89 Points

Ruckus Estate

Ruckus Estate SV ‘Mérite’ Merlot 2015 Wrattonbully, South Australia

Densely scented bouquet with aromas of sweet plum and new oak, violet and clove, wild red berries and liquorice root; as the opens up in glass the concentration and complexity builds whilst holding onto its very youthful quiver. On the palate – an obvious yet not overdone ripeness and concentration with flavours that reflect the nose centering on plums, some blue fruits and floral moments. The oak is obvious with its youthful attack, but will integrate over time; medium+ (ish) tannins and acidity, well made and drinking well now. Best from 2019 through 2030+.

94 Points

Brick Bay

Brick Bay Rosé 2017 Matakana, North Auckland

Deep salmon and Auckland rose hues lead to aromas and flavours of quince and strawberry, red apple and bing cherry, a gentle mineral and very light savoury edge adds complexity and depth. On the palate – vibrant, fresh and bursting with flavours that reflect the nose as well as chilled peach and rose tea, very fine tannins and refreshing acidity. A perfect Summer and Autumn wine. Drink now and through 2020.

93 Points

Aravin

Aravin Pinot Gris 2017 Central Otago

A lovely ripe, fresh, youthful and inviting bouquet of fresh bosc pear, red apple and grapefruit peel, a stony mineral and white pepper moment adds some depth and intrigue. On the palate – juicy, fleshy, plush, textured and just dry with a lengthy finish. Balanced and well-made. Lovely food wine or as an aperitif – drink now and though 2020.

91 Points

Aravin Pinot Noir 2015 Central Otago

100% PN on the nose with aromas of dried raspberry and black cherry laced with violet and stony soils suggestions, savoury dried herb, mild to moderate wood aromas of dusty clove and vanilla with toasty wood notes, a youthful quiver & with a building complexity as the wine opens up in the glass. On the palate – very youthful with a tense and obvious impact from the tannins and acidity; the flavours described above do emerge with a very youthful attack. Will continue to develop for some time yet. Decant for service. Best from 2019 through 2029.

92 Points

Mangaorapa Estate

Mangaorapa Estate Pinot Noir 2014 Southern Hawkes Bay

A charming yet specific bouquet of Pinot with aromas of cherry and red berries with a crunchy red fruits and mild savoury complexity combination; minerality is obvious with a crumbly dry clay/sand suggestion then moderate oak layer with brown spices. On the palate – a dry wine with cranberry and red cherry flavours laced with soft brown spices. Fine to moderate tannins and plenty of acidity; medium weight and fine overall. Best from now and through 2026.

92 Points

Mangaorapa Estate Pinot Noir 2015 Southern Hawkes Bay

Youthful, vibrant and fruity with plenty of varietal pinosity showing fresh red cherry and raspberry highlights, a sandy/clay-like mineral layer, toasty oak with soft brown spice accents. On the palate – dry with loads of texture, shape and form – youthful tannins with a coarse texture and acidity to match then flavours of red fleshed fruits and some red apple. Overall a wine showing great promise and length. Best from 2019 through 2029.

91 Points

Black Cottage

Black Cottage Sauvignon Blanc 2017 Marlborough

Ripe, plush and quite a vibrant bouquet with aromas and flavours of apple, citrus, gentle tropical fruit moments, a touch of spice, sweet flowers and mild lees note. Plush on the palate with fresh and juicy fruit flavours, coarse silk texture a stony/mineral undertones. Balanced, fresh and quite lengthy. Drink now and through 2022.

91 Points

Black Cottage Reserve Pinot Noir 2016 Central Otago

A charming bouquet with a floral, fresh fruit and mineral laden beginning, moderate oak suggestions with a fine toasty wood and brown spice layer. On the palate – flavours of raspberry, cherry and red apple; some sweet rose and violet floral moments; abundant fine tannins, medium+ acidity; youthful, fresh and tasty with a fairly lengthy finish. Best drinking from 2019 through 2029.

93 Points

Two Rivers

Two Rivers of Marlborough ‘Convergence’ Sauvignon Blanc 2017

Sophisticated, fruity, varietal and quite pungent with aromas and flavours of sweet red apple, lemon, grapefruit and white fleshed stone fruits; a tropical note of passionfruit follows. Vibrant with mealy/chalky textures accentuated by refreshing acidity; loads of sweet citrus and crunchy bell-pepper, a touch of white spice and lengthy finish. A lovely example. Drink now and through 2021.

91 Points

Jules Taylor Wines

Jules Taylor Wines Sauvignon Blanc 2017 Marlborough

Classic Marlborough SB Bouquet with a pungent and powerful package of sweet grass and fresh herbs, grapefruit, cape gooseberry and citrus; the tropical passion fruit and mango suggestions follow. On the palate – equally powerful, intense acidity, fresh and vibrant flavours with a steely texture. Drink now and through 2020.

89 Points

Jules Taylor Wines Pinot Gris 2017 Marlborough

Loads of fresh and vibrant Gris aromas with spicy white pepper pear, apples and honeysuckle. On the palate – tense, youthful, fruity and just dry with some residual sweetness adding weight and texture; silky lengthy finish, always well made. Drink now and through 2020.

89 Points