Having just returned to Blighty from colonial jaunts, I thought I would pen some brief thoughts on some NZ wines tasted. We did not "do" as many wineries as last time as we had more important matters to attend to, ( I can hear you all moan from here," whats more important than wine") Stayed with sister in law in Canterbury and son in Queenstown, so mainly Waipara and Otago wines.
General observations. SB in 2004 was overcropped and it showed at some wineries. I was dissappointed at the general standard of the Pinot Noirs, they seemed almost Beaujolais in style, simple for quaffing.
Some wineries visited,
Canterbury House Vineyard., Waipara...........nothing of note, all very "commercial" Fiddlers Green, Waipara, a small winery with serious wine, both the 04 SB and Chard were excellent. The SB typical NZ, but complex and long. Waipara Springs.....none of note.
Akarua, Central Otago, excellent lunch, The oaked chard was stunning, almost like a buttery Mersault. The wife thiught wine of the trip. Pinot like fruit pop. Carrick, Bannockburn, all fair, but still where waas the stunning Otago Pinot I was after. Felton Road, Bannockburn, Pinot, youthful and potential for ageing, best Pinot of trip. Peregrine, Queenstown, fancy roofed building, ( like a peregrines wing!!!)..........nothing to write home about.
A bottle of Felton Road Pinot 2002, with loin of lamb at my sister in laws. Depth and bright, complex vegetal pisspot nose, soft andlong, lingering fruits,,,,yum.
Had a meal at The Postmasters house in Arrowtown, shortlisted in Cuisine for NZ restaurant of year. Sat out on a sultry night, ( hot spell in South Island). Some problems in kitchen, but a good menu and best at Pacific rim. Overall an excellent meal with the kids, very long wine list, 82 Lascases etc. Bill for 5 with house wines etc GBP 200, very good value compared to the UK
JT