One of the country's most impressive Gewürztraminers. Grown in the Home Block and nearby Woodward Vineyard, at the foot of the Wither Hills, it is typically harvested at about 24 brix and mostly fermented in stainless steel tanks; a small part of the blend (usually 5 to 10 per cent) is given 'the full treatment', with a high-solids, indigenous yeast ferment in seasoned French oak barriques, malolactic fermentation and lees-stirring. Retasted in early 2021, the 2018 vintage (4.5*) is perfumed and weighty, with strong pear, lychee and spice flavours, a touch of complexity, gentle sweetness (6.7 grams/litre of residual sugar), and excellent delicacy, harmony and length. It's drinking well now. The 2019 vintage (4.5*) is a mouthfilling, youthful wine, bright, light lemon/green, with delicate peach, pear and spice flavours, fresh acidity, a distinct touch of complexity (from 11 per cent barrel fermentation), and a finely textured, off-dry (6 grams/litre of residual sugar), lingering finish. Best drinking 2022+.
Details
Type: White Wines
Variety: Gewürztraminer
Vintage: 2019
Overall Rating for All Vintages Tasted: ★★★★★ – 5 Stars
Price: $25 NZD
Sweetness: MED/DRY
Value for Money: V+
This wine is a Super Classic.
When to drink: 2022
Past Vintages:
Vintage: 2019; Winemaker’s Rating: 7/7; When to Drink: 22 – 25
Vintage: 2018; Winemaker’s Rating: 6/7; When to Drink: 22 – 24
Vintage: 2017; Winemaker’s Rating: 7/7; When to Drink: 22 – 25
Vintage: 2016; Winemaker’s Rating: 7/7; When to Drink: 22 – 24
Vintage: 2015; Winemaker’s Rating: 7/7; When to Drink: 22 – 24
Vintage: 2014; Winemaker’s Rating: 6/7; When to Drink: P – P
Vintage: 2013; Winemaker’s Rating: 7/7; When to Drink: P – P
Vintage: 2012; Winemaker’s Rating: 7/7; When to Drink: P – P
Notes: WR provided by wineries. P = Peaked.
Reviewed March 2022