A wine from the Arnold vineyard in Hawke’s Bay – made the year after Kate Radburnd left Vidal, by Elise Montgomery. Sealed under cork, and at well over thirty years old, there’s probably not too many New Zealand whites you could confidently open at that age! A vibrant copper-amber colour in the glass. The bouquet mirrors the colour, with satsuma, apricot, quince and peach, then the signature rose petal floral note of the varietal. Acidity is still singing well, leading the way through the palate, and enough structure to give drive and spine. Off-dry but not sweet, I did feel that the back of the palate had dried out somewhat, and was missing a cocoon of texture that would round things out. The finish is brief and drier – the wine started to hollow out quite quickly after opening – but was more than just a curiosity piece – an enjoyable, aromatic glass. 87pts
Vidal Reserve Gewürztraminer 1991
