A fairly rare varietal in New Zealand – this one from two sites in Gibbston Valley and Cromwell. ‘Alternative whites’ like this, or Albarino, Gruner Veltliner, Chenin Blanc and Viognier are interesting alternatives to the more common Chardonnay, Pinot Gris or Sauvignon Blanc, and will have much to appeal to white wine drinkers keen to explore beyond the ‘big three’.
A light straw colour with a touch of green to the edges. Gently aromatic, with a delicate, floral perfume. Golden apple, peach, chestnut, chamomile, white pepper and tarragon on the nose. Tight, minerally and with a tickle of phenolics on the palate. Some green herbal notes and richer nuance of honey and lemon marmalade develop, buoyed by a crisp acidity. A soft, creamy texture adds enough weight to give a rounded, succulence to the finish. 90pts
