Reviews

Tony Bish has a singular vision – Hawke’s Bay chardonnay. Pushing the boundaries with innovation, and investments in egg-shaped fermenters – including the first Taransaud French oak ‘Ovum’ to make …

Tony Bish ‘Fat & Sassy’ Chardonnay 2019 Read More

I first met this wine at the end of June as it was just being sent up to Auckland for bottling – my first wine of the 2020 vintage; and …

Esk Valley Hawke’s Bay Pinot Gris 2020 Read More

This was my choice for “Pinot Noir Day 2020” OK, I cheated and started it the night before, but will finish it off on the big day.. Another great value …

Bald Hills ‘3 Acres’ Pinot Noir 2016 Read More

A single vineyard wine, from the Gimblett Gravels vineyard in Hawke’s Bay; made with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec – a blend of classic Bordeaux varietals. Deepest, inky …

Craggy Range Gimblett Gravels ‘Te Kahu’ 2010 Read More

One of the first 2020 vintage bottled wines to cross my paths for tasting. This is very promising! Open and accessible – invitingly appealing to drink, and easy to understand, …

Villa Maria Private Bin Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2020 Read More

This was described by winemaker Malcolm Rees-Francis in our conversation this year, as a wine ‘constructed’ in a particular style, using the artistry of the winemaker over the science. Deep …

Rockburn ‘The Art’ Pinot Noir 2016 Read More

Traditionally one of the country’s most lauded white wines, from a single vineyard site in Hawke’s Bay. Interesting to try this new release from the 2019 vintage that many are …

Villa Maria Keltern Chardonnay 2019 Read More

This is an entry-level wine from Akarua, but delivering bags of drink-young appeal and fresh, classic Central Otago flavours. With a few years developing in the bottle, this 2016 is …

Akarua RUA Pinot Noir 2016 Read More

Back in classic Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay territory – bit of a sweet spot for us over here at WineFolio! Reviewed a lovely 2016 version at the end of last year, …

Babich ‘Irongate’ Chardonnay 2018 Read More