These wines were part of a seminar at ProWein. The seminar, presented by Romana Echensperger, was a sell out, so I tasted these wines afterwards on the New Zealand Winegrowers’ stand.
Quartz Reef Brut NV Central Otago, New Zealand
‘L2012’ on the label indicates that the base wine here is from 2012. It’s a really nice fizz with subtle toast alongside the pear and citrus fruit. Showing lovely balance, this is tight but with some depth. 90/100
Millton Te Arai Chenin Blanc 2014 Gisborne, New Zealand
I love this wine: it’s the pretty, friendly face of Chenin. Very attractive with open pear and apricot fruit, as well as taut lemony notes. Once again, lovely balance with direct fruit presence. 93/100
Huia Sauvignon Blanc 2014 Marlborough, New Zealand
Fresh and supple with nice pear and ripe apple characters. Very pure with an interesting texture. 90/100
Pyramid Valley Vineyards Lion’s Tooth Chardonnay 2012 North Canterbury, New Zealand
This is a distinctive, slightly unusual Chardonnay with some creamy, buttery notes and nice texture. Some dairy characters under the citrus and pear fruit with a touch of herbiness. Nice weight and a long finish. 91/100
Seresin Leah Pinot Noir 2012 Marlborough, New Zealand
There’s a savoury, spicy edge to the supple, fresh red cherry and plum fruit, Some fine spiciness but also a bit of robust meatiness. Beautifully expressive. 93/100
Felton Road Bannockburn Pinot Noir 2013 Central Otago, New Zealand
Ripe, supple and generous with a bit of meaty warmth as well as some spicy structure. Quite fine and already approachable. 93/100
Villa Maria Organic Merlot Private Bin 2013 Hawkes Bay, New Zealand
This was quite a surprise: lovely fresh, dark, pure, sweet black fruits. Vivid, full and quite stylish. 90/100
Te Whare Ra Syrah 2011 Marlborough, New Zealand
Vivid, grippy and herby with lovely black fruits. Black cherries, pepper – fresh and vivid. 94/100
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5 Comments on Seven organic or biodynamic wines from New Zealand
The climate and lack of tradition both help in moving to organic and onwards. No score for the Quartz Reef?
Have you ever given a wine from New Zealand less than 90 points?
Score added.
Yes FN plenty – but I tend only to write about the really good ones
Hi, I will be visiting Auckland region for a few days soon. Would you recommend a winery, preferably a family vineyard and if possible biodynamic or organic wines? I will not be able to go further down than Rotorua (no time). Cheers,
Hi again, still no answer?