Jim Jerram is the leading pioneer of the developing Waitaki Valley viticultural region. His Ostler label is based in the hamlet of Kurow (where Richie McCaw played his first rugby) and has developed a fine reputation for Pinot Noir and aromatic whites. The name comes from Jim’s great-grandfather, William Ostler, who came from Yorkshire to this area in the 1850s. The Waitaki climate is cooler than Central Otago, thanks to afternoon easterly breezes sucked in from the coast, however the ripening season is longer and lower frost risks.

Showing lightly caramelised red apples and pears on the nose this richly bodied Pinot Gris delivers a delightful blend of spices on the palate. Gingerbread, cinnamon and rose petal dance on the tongue accompanied by green fruit and a hint of lychee. These flavours and its generous texture make it a perfect match for pan-fried scallops or Munster cheese.

This 3-magnum mixed case contains 1 magnum each of 2013 Felton Road Bannockburn, 2013 Felton Road Calvert and 2013 Felton Road Block 5. These wines have been partnered together to show the tighter, more restrained and elegant style of Pinot Noir that Felton Road makes on the heavy clay soils of Calvert and Block 5. This is a wonderful and rare collection case for any aficionado of Felton Road’s superb wines.
Catriona Felstead MW - New Zealand Buyer

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