Drift Wines

The kiwis have certainly gained some traction with their Pinot Gris, comfortably outclassing most of the Australian efforts by a clear margin. In fact, we think that Pinot Gris could even be a better drink than NZ Sauvignon Blanc (but don't tell anyone). As for this wine, it's got that classic pear fruit generosity that Pinot Gris does so well, yet still backed by cleansing acidity (which can be the achilles heal of riper style Pinot Gris - not enough acidity). Nice drink.

Well, I can’t spill the beans on this one, suffice to say that there is a very big name behind it, turning out some terrific booze. And where else in the world is making better Pinot Noir under $20 than the land of the long white cloud just across the ditch. This is what good New Zealand Pinot Noir is all about – complex earthy red fruit flavours, with just a hint of spice finishing supple and long. Drink up with duck, or a sausage roll!

Sourced from the Awatere Valley, a Marlborough subregion that is known for it's slighter cooler, drier climate, with the resultant wines normally more 'minerally' and crisper than those from the neighbouring Wairau Valley (the other main Marlborough subregion). The intention with the Drift wines is to craft a contemporary style that is approachable but still authentic in it's origins - A Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc without the full on 'cat pee on a gooseberry bush' aromatics of the arch traditional style, but without being sweet or flabby either. From all this the end result is a fresh as a daisy style with passionfruit and herbs as well as some nice tropical fruit. Crisp, well made...