2014 New Zealand

Having lived in London at the heart of the UK wine trade for many years, Sam Harrop MW moved back to New Zealand with his family a few years ago and now makes wines under his own name (for the first time), working his aunt and uncle’s vineyard, located at 400 metres’ altitude on the sub-tropical island of Waiheke.

This is impressive, pure and elegant Syrah. It has a lovely aromatic nose with classic Northern Rhône aromas, and flavours of wet granite and fresh black cherries. The palate is refined and elegant with a refreshing herbaceous twist. There is a glorious breadth on the palate but the wine is wonderfully refreshing with a real lift on the finish. We cannot recommend enough that you give this a try.

Strikingly pure on the nose, citrus, white peach and grapefruit with just a suggestion of toasty oak in the background. Medium to full bodied palate, expansive mouthfeel but the core of freshening acidity keeps the fruit in check.  Attractive richness and plenty of finesse, lovely crowd pleasing Chardonnay.
Martyn Rolph, Private Account Manager

The Pinot spends three weeks on the skins before being aged for 12 months in French oak, of which 35% is new. Attractive pale ruby in colour, the nose of this 2014 Pinot Noir is laced with ripe cherry fruit and red liquorice, with a lifted perfume of black raspberry leaf. The palate is elegantly balanced with fine tannins which surround a succulent core of red cherries and mulberries, overladen with notes of clove and violets. Medium in body with a refreshing acidity which keeps everything in check and leads towards a moreish finish. A very fine effort with a lot to like here, and will offer enjoyment from 2017 – 2025.
Chris Lamb, Private Account Manager

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 – so far – with lower frost risks.

The newest vineyard site in the Ostler stable, Lakeside, is perhaps the most exciting yet for aromatic grapes such as Riesling. The flavours offer delicious lemon and lime notes, while a trace of residual sugar balances the Riesling grape’s natural acidity. At 10.5 percent alcohol this is a beautifully refreshing drink.