From the iconic Seddon and Taylors Pass vineyards – in Marlborough’s Awatere Valley, this was a Gold Medal winner at NZIWS this year. A mix of opulence and zestiness on the nose with pear, lychee, roasted apple and lemon curd, but also nettle, basil and lime peel. Firmly concentrated with a buoyant acidity that highlights the tropical fruit notes and then a svelte textural quality that adds spiciness and minerality. The finish is polished and well-weighted, with bags of personality – which this varietal requires, to avoid being boring. 93pts
Villa Maria Marlborough Reserve Pinot Gris 2021
