Peter Yealands, the self-described "mavericky" founder of Yealands Family Wines.
With his flowing mane of silver hair and steely gaze, Peter Yealands has a certain rock-star quality so I wasn't completely surprised to hear him describe his approach to winemaking as "mavericky". With past lives as a general contractor, deer farmer, and marine farming innovator, Peter had never even set foot on a vineyard when he purchased 70 derelict acres in Marlborough, New Zealand in 1998. Fast-forward 16 years, and Yealands Family Wines has expanded so dramatically that they are now New Zealand's single biggest vineyard. I had a chance to sample Yealands wines and meet the man behind the label at a tasting in New York City at the wonderful Marea restaurant. Yealands winemaker Tamra Kelly-Washington was not in attendance but her lovely wines represented her very well.
Of course, New Zealand is recognized around the world for their sublime Sauvignon Blanc and Yealands is an excellent representation of the varietal. Peter Yealands Sauvignon Blanc 2014 ($15.99) paired beautifully with Marea's lobster salad. The wine has luscious tropical notes of guava and papaya that are artfully balanced by a hint of minerals and herbs - remarkably nuanced flavors for such a young wine. The Yealands Estate Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2013 ($24.99) was also a beauty - citrusy & herbaceous with excellent acidity. I was impressed that both of these wines had only the slightest hint of the grassiness that often dominates Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand.
The Peter Yealands 2013 Pinot Noir ($18.99) was perhaps the biggest surprise for me. I looked back at my notes from the tasting and I wrote "Wow!" To translate that wow into a more eloquent description, let's say that I found this wine supple and elegant, with rich dark cherry notes and a touch of spice. A very versatile wine, it paired well with my seafood lunch but I think it would really shine alongside some delicious New Zealand lamb. I would not be upset if Santa left me a case of Peter Yealands Pinot Noir 2013 under the tree!
I've never been to New Zealand but each sip of Yealands Family Wines made me feel a bit closer. Now added to my travel wish-list is a visit to the Yealands vineyards - a seemingly magical place committed to sustainable practices and where chickens are serenaded with music, adorable babydoll miniature sheep roam the property, and the wine is mavericky delicious! If you find yourself in Marlborough, you can visit Yealands and sample their wines at their Cellar Door tasting room.
