A white wine made from Pinot Gris and Viognier grapes – these blends are all too rare in New Zealand – Elephant Hill describing it as ‘our signature aromatic white blend’. A pale lemon-silver in the glass, with an enticing bouquet of pear, apricot, honey, baking spice, mandarin and a top note of jasmine florals. Fresh, youthful and succulent – a smidge of fruit sweetness is evident on first sip. Bright acidity heightens the mood, mingling with a chalky minerality and the plush fruit to create an ‘al dente’ balance through the palate. Hints of ginger, lychee and white pepper add complexity, into a textural silkiness, and then on to a spicy, fresh finish. 93pts