Blog

Back in February I attended Pinot Noir 2025 in Christchurch, New Zealand. It was quite a special event. One of the main draws for me was to take a deep dive, tasting lots of Pinot Noir from across New Zealand. I’ve been to previous iterations of these events, going back 15 years, and this time I got the impression that some important strides forward have been made with Pinot Noir in this country. There’s less process evident, and more place. There’s a refreshing stylistic diversity on show, with winegrowers confident to break free of the mainstream style of Pinot Noir....

Taste Aotearoa: Get to know these five New Zealand wineries. When you're looking to buy a bottle of wine from a country that you don't know much about, the best place to start is with the producers. If you find a producer that you like, you're guaranteed a good time no matter which bottle you select. Today we're getting to know five New Zealand producers. Including four wineries from the sun-kissed vineyards of Marlborough – Catalina Sounds, Isabel Estate, Novum and Spy Valley – and one from the rugged slopes of Central Otago – Nanny Goat Vineyard – this guide introduces you to a selection of standout New Zealand wineries. Whether you’re planning a cellar-door...

Behind the Scenes  Call of the wild - Thinking time over vintage led to the creation of an app to support conversation. "I'm keen to come up with ideas that appeal to my generation" Amy Gibbs  Full Article - Page 26

Wine columnist DENNIS KNILL gives his views on Spy Valley’s Sauvignon Blanc wines. Hidden away in the southern valleys of Marlborough is one of New Zealand’s purest wine growing regions. Spy Valley Wines shares this unique valley with 180 hectares of premium vines that were planted 30 years ago by Bryan and Jan Johnson who had the will and pioneering spirit to work land that was considered too hard, too dry, and too infertile for growing grapes. Today, they have established one of the most successful family-owned wineries in the country, with a range of award-winning varietals that are exported...