GOLD

A big thank you to all our supporters who sent congratulations on our success in the latest Air New Zealand Wine Awards (Pencarrow Pinot Noir 2009 – Gold, Palliser Estate Pinot Noir 2008 – Pure Gold,  Palliser Estate Pinot Gris 2009 – Silver, Palliser Estate Chardonnay 2009 – Silver, Palliser Estate Chardonnay 2008 – Pure Bronze). Many congratulations to our very talented Winemaking team Allan Pip and all those in the vineyard which is where our wines are born.Its a complex business so success is sweet given the current global economic conditions.

Some winemakers, and remember we are an individualistic lot, seem to suffer from award fatigue and do not enter what are undoubtedly some the country’s quality wines. I have to say I regret this. We are a small nation trying to make a living in a very big and indifferent world. When a major corporate like Air New Zealand sticks with the wine industry during these difficult times and does everything it can to showcase the country’s best they deserve not just our thanks but our support too.

Now I have a confession to make. I was one of those lucky enough to attend the Direct Capital event at Papakura last week. I can’t reveal the exact venue but some of you may have read about it on the front page of the Sunday Star Times. I have to say it was a privilege to be with that extraordinary group of young New Zealanders who have done so much for our reputation around the world. We have not always been very generous to our military so I was glad that the group could make contribution to the appropriate trust fund which helps make life a little bit easier for their families.

Reflecting on Air New Zealand’s loyal support for encouraging the very best in our industry and thinking back on the people I met a Papakura last week makes me feel very positive about this country.

Author: Richard

Palliser Pinot can you feel the love….?

A devoted charity, a lovingly created label and a premium wine.

 ‘Shine’ (safer homes in NZ everyday) www.2shine.org.nz is a charity devoted to the care of children and women who are victims of domestic violence. Supporter of the charity, Roger Wall commissioned one of New Zealand’s most famous contemporary artists – Ralph Hotere, to create the label and then donated 20 bottles of Arohanui: “Big Love” to “Shine” charity.   Arohanui is a Palliser Estate Pinot Noir 2008.

Wellington Regional Wines – Basin Reserve

Palliser Estate Pinot Noir 2008

Looking exceptional well was the Palliser Estate Martinborough Pinot Noir 2008 (19.0-/20), dark ruby red, full, rich, lush and fleshy, the dark savoury berry characters showing interest and complexity.  The acid freshness was a feature.  Excellent, soft extract.  4-6+ years easily.

Author: Jane

Just back from national tour…

Just got back from Negociants NZ ‘Friends at Home’ tour, we visited our main centers – Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.   Great feedback on the Palliser Pinot Noir 08 from the masterclasses.  Raymond Chan liked it.  He said ‘Looking exceptional well was the Palliser Estate Martinborough Pinot Noir 2008 (19.0-/20), dark ruby red, full, rich, lush and fleshy, the dark savoury berry characters showing interest and complexity.  The acid freshness was a feature.  Excellent, soft extract.  4-6+ years easily’. 

And likewise, I personally think the 2009 whites are drinking so well, give them a go. 

Great vibe out there especially in Christchurch – true troopers!

Author: Jane

Pencarrow Pinot Noir in Glengarry’s “Little Brothers”

“Carrying the cachet of the big brandwithout the cash outlay, Pencarrow has firmly established itself as a name of excellence in its own right. The label was set up as a more affordable alternative, and quality and value are certainly trademarks.    Pencarrow trumps many first-tier brands, and the 2008 is brimming with flavour and finesse.”

Read the full article on the Glengarry site.

Author: Jane

International Wine Cellar gives Pencarrow Pinot 89/100

Stephen Tanzer over at International Wine Cellar gave our Pencarrow 2008 Pinot Noir 89/100. Here’s what he said:

“Good bright, full red. Raspberry and milk chocolate aromas are lifted by a floral note, with some smoky oak emerging with air. Juicy, dry and nicely ripe, with raspberry fruit given lift and definition by pepper and spice notes. Finishes clean, juicy and persistent, with tangy notes of red fruits and white pepper.”