A vote of thanks to creative winemaker Malcolm Rees-Francis for going out on a limb and making a fumé blanc. Says the winemaker, "Although it's made from sauvignon blanc, what I'm seeking is expression of minerality and texture, something far away from the "ordinary" as far as we understand sauvignon blanc." This is a single vineyard wine displaying richness and minerality but focused more on complex textural secondary characters rather than the primary notes of the usual Kiwi sauvignon. Floral, herbal, creamy and fabulous.
Price: $40
2012 Corofin Marlborough Pinot Noir
A new kid on the block from Marlborough. The region continues to reposition itself as not just all about sauvignon blanc. An auspicious debut indeed, from winemaker Mike Paterson, who brings a high level of experienceand expertise with an excellentwine that will add to the region's growing reputation for premium pinot. Red fruit flavours are nicely balanced with a savoury, textured complexity. This is a genuine crowd-pleaser and definitely in the "ones to watch" category.
Price: $45
