Region
The northern tip of South Island has become New Zealand`s most important wine region since sheep farming and cherry orchards were first replaced with vineyard in the 1970s. Much of the land is alluvial river basin with well-drained soils that provide an ideal environment for pungent, grassy Sauvignon Blanc. Pinot Noir from the more suitable clay slopes and Pinot Gris are also proving world-beaters.
Producer
A vivid green seaweed, known as Durvillea, waves from the sea along Marlborough`s rocky coastline, clinging to rocks at low tide. To the locals, it is known as Bull Kelp or Rimurapa. Our winemaker Simon Waghorn was drawn to Durvillea when studying toward a Masters of Natural Resources in 1980. He was planning to farm seaweed but changed course to undertake a career in winemaking. Its strong lines, shapes, textures and colours were the inspiration for this wine. It is symbolic of Simon Waghorn`s pure and complex wines from his acclaimed Astrolabe Winery.
His wife, Jane Forrest Waghorn recognised there is a market demand for a high quality, accessible wine.
The result is a strong distinctive brand, producing beautiful wines which come from sustainable vineyards and are environmentaly friendly.
Tasting (Long)
A Pinot Grigio with a new world twist. Fruit was selected from the Wairau and Waihopai valleys and used in the Durvillea blend to give perfumed and restrained fragrance, yellow golden hues and whilst crisp and fresh with a classy dryness, it has a hint of ripe pears and minerality on the palate. Light bodied, but great with food, it has balanced acidity and has a rich smooth finish. The flavour of the new world with some restrained elegance of the old world!
Tasting (Short)
Golden yellow shimmers, this wine displays essence of pear with steely minerality. Light and fruity, it has balanced acidity and a smooth, long finish.
Food
Seafood risotto, lightly grilled chicken and pan fried sea bream.
Awards
Bronze medal at the 2009 DWWA.