Superstar pinot noir
Does Central Otago produce this country’s best examples of pinot noir? According to my database (and palate), the answer is yes, by a slim margin, although the other pinot noir regions are hot on Central Otago’s heels.
New and Noteworthy
Semillon semsations
I love great, mature Hunter Valley semillon, so help me.
Burn Cottage pinot pleasures
Burn Cottage’s pinot noir releases are always noteworthy.
Aussie Rhône whites dazzle
The Rhône Valley white varieties are so well-suited to Australian conditions, it’s surprising we don’t see more of them.
Matt Connell’s spiritual pinot noirs
Matt Connell is from Taranaki but regards Central Otago as his spiritual home.
Variations on a nebbiolo theme
In my latest tasting of alternative red varieties, there were eight nebbiolos, from five regions.
Fabulous Forrest Collection Chardonnay
I was recently sent two Forrest Collection Marlborough chardonnays from the 2012 and 2013 vintages. Both are currently available.
The odd red bunch impresses
Mount Majura Vineyard tempranillos were among the most compelling wines in my recent mega-tasting of ‘odd red varieties’.
Best of Johanneshof
Johanneshof Cellars is perhaps best known for its intense gewürztraminer and pinot gris but their riesling, sauvignon blanc, rosé and Méthode sparkler have all historically hit the spot with me.
Historic Henschke highlights
Stephen Henschke has become a good talker, as well as one of Australia’s greatest winemakers. I taste the 2013 Henschke Hill Of Grace and Mount Edelstone and other new releases.