North Island

A little Pinot interlude, taken to Ruth’s dinner party. But at the end of the day, a little underwhelming for something that is pitched …

This is the most Northern Rhône-like Syrah that is nevertheless definitively of its own place, and not from the Rhône. Grown from a selection …

[Tim, wishing you all the best for your MW future. Has been a real pleasure talking with you. John Hancock. 30/9/14. Planet of the …

A first chance to taste Kumeu River’s wines, and they’re certainly aiming for quality. Characterised by new oak, ripe, but linear fruit on the …

The final red – after Santa Duc Gigondas, 98 Beaucastel and Terram Priorat 06 – with venison. Perfectly mature, with silky tannins, but surprising …

Took this to Allegra’s wedding in the belief that we were bringing for our table… and then was lucky to be able to rescue …

I’d heard good things not only about Craggy Range’s series of New Zealand wines, but also about Syrah from Gimblett Gravels in North Island. …

My first wine from Waiheke Island, north of Auckland. An interesting balance between Old and New Worlds: certainly a core of quite ripe black …

After revisiting the ’99 Clos des Ursules and ’99 Sterling Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon with a venison main (both still on form – the Sterling surprisingly …

A half-bottle of Ata Rangi’s entry-level, young vines (<15 years old) cuvee, bought at the vineyard after a long chat with Eleanor at their …