2013 New Zealand

As the name suggests, Hans Herzog's roots lie in Switzerland where the family has grown wine since 1630. Looking for a new challenge, in the mid-1990s they planted an 11-hectare vineyard bordering the Wairau River here in Marlborough. Hans has adopted an experimentalist stance, cultivating an eclectic array of varieties.

The white grape varieties of the Northern Rhône – Viognier, Marsanne, Roussanne – are given a distinctly New World interpretation in the hands of Hans Herzog. Bold aromas of peach, pineapple, and coconut are immediately appealing. The palate offers plenty of crisp acidity, a rich, creamy texture and an herbal, savoury character which lingers on the finish. This would make an excellent partner for a full-flavoured chicken or seafood favourite. Enjoy now and over the next three to five years.

Lots of pulpy, bright cassis fruit on the nose. Toasty as well from the 18 months in barrel (French oak, mostly new). Lots of brambly black fruit on the palate. Tannins are perfectly ripe and integrated. Very complete mouth feel and lingering finish. Bitter chocolate note on finish with a fresh redcurrant acidity. Superb this year. Give it a couple of years in the cellar.
Fergus Stewart - Private Account Manager
 
The nose is rich, opulent and broad; but has the detail and intricacies that vintages such as 2009 now have. On the palate one could be forgiven for thinking that this is a top level Medoc Claret in a great vintage. Such is the palate saturating, rich, complex fruit character. There is a wonderful wave of fine, ripe tannins just waiting to unfurl, which when they do is like a whirlwind on the palate. There is great freshness and coolness to this wine and although I haven’t re-tasted their last few efforts recently I am more than happy to declare this the best I’ve tasted.
Gary Owen - Private Account Manager