Wine With Wanda

Love Leads at Loveblock Winery in New Zealand

 

"Going organic is a choice, and for us, feels like the right thing to do. Our intention is to nurture the ecosystem of the soil and the vines and give back to its roots as naturally as possible. Ultimately, I believe the resulting wine is better and truer to its terroir.”
 Erica Crawford, Founder & CEO of Loveblock Winery

When Erica and Kim Crawford stood on the hills high above the hustle and bustle of Marlborough's Awatere Valley, they fell in love with the breathtaking view below and the untamed land at their feet. They aren't kidding when they say "Loveblock was forged from a love affair with a view and a challenge."

When Erica founded Loveblock, she hired the best winemaker she knows -- her husband and award-winning winemaker Kim Crawford. I met Kim several months ago and his commitment to authentic and quality winemaking has earned him well-deserved accolades in New Zealand and around the globe. 

I recently interviewed Erica for my Instagram Live series. Watch the video above or on YouTube. During our conversation, we discussed Loveblock's commitment to low intervention farming, which they believe enables the wine to show its true and naked terroir. We also discussed Erica's disdain for wine snobs! You'll even learn why so many wines from New Zealand are bottled under screw cap. Grab a bottle of Loveblock, watch the video, and discover why “Loveblock is a true love story, it is one of depth and dedication." Erica and I tasted three Loveblock wines during our chat. 


Loveblock Pinot Gris 2018, Marlborough ($22.99) 
Dry but fruit-forward with lingering flavors of stone fruit and lime. Quite luscious! 
 

Loveblock Sauvignon Blanc 2019, Marlborough ($28)
Not aggressively zesty but absolutely vibrant, this elegant Sauvignon Blanc is crisp and juicy with flavors of white peach, tropical fruits, and a hint of herbs. 2% Pinot Gris in the blend adds a lush roundness. Rated 90 points by Wine Spectator and recently featured as their Wine Pick of the Day.


Loveblock Pinot Noir 2018, Central Otago ($29.99)
Rated 93 points by Wine Spectator and #46 on their Top 100 Wines of 2019, this medium-bodied Pinot Noir has vibrant red fruit flavors and a hint of earthy mushroom. 

Modern Day Marlborough Man: Sipping New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc & Pinot Noir with Nobilo Winemaker David Edmonds

 

Nobilo winemaker David Edmonds doesn't hesitate when asked what his biggest challenge is -- "It's letting people know that all Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc are not the same." Because Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand is so popular, many people mistakenly believe there's only one uniform style. Often described as grassy, zesty, and easygoing; that's only one facet of Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand and David is determined to showcase the diversity and elegance of his homeland's most famous wine.

image courtesy of Nobilo Wines

By the age of 15, David was already certain that he wanted to be a winemaker but never imagined that he would hold this position at one of New Zealand's most iconic producers, Nobilo. The Nobilo story begins in 1943 when founder Nikola Nobilo arrived in New Zealand from his native Croatia. Armed with his family's 300 years of winemaking experience, Mr. Nobilo immediately saw the potential for Sauvignon Blanc to thrive in Marlborough's terroir and was truly a pioneer in the region. Nobilo's vineyards are spread throughout the sub-regions of Marlborough, the northeastern corner of New Zealand's South Island. One of New Zealand's sunniest and driest regions, Marlborough's combination of ideal temperature, topography, ocean breezes, and mineral rich soils combine to create a veritable utopia for Sauvignon Blanc grapes. 



Nobilo Sauvignon Blanc 2017 ($13)
"Natural acidity is our secret weapon," said David. And he's right. Vivacious and lively acid is the wave that carries the wine's juicy fruit flavors of pineapple, mango, and peach along with a subtle hint of green herbs. The grapes were sourced from Nobilo's vineyards throughout Marlborough. Crisp and refreshing, this charming white wine is a great aperitif. Not just for summer, Nobilo Sauvignon Blanc is a perfect choice when it's cold outside but the indoor heat is blasting and you want something chilled and refreshing! 



Nobilo Icon Sauvignon Blanc 2017 ($22)
If you think Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand is just about easygoing zest, Nobilo Icon's elegantly restrained intensity and flinty minerality show the varietal's capacity for sophistication. Nobilo's flagship wine, the grapes for Icon are sourced from three special vineyards in the Marlborough region. David poetically describes Nobilo Icon's aroma as "the smell of thunder on the breeze." On the palate, he describes an "explosion of flavor" -- citrus, tropical, flinty minerality, passionfruit, white flowers, and a tad herbaceous. Nobilo Icon has the structure needed to pair with more substantial seafood dishes like monkfish, steamed mussels, and sautéed prawns. 



Nobilo Icon Pinot Noir 2016 ($22)
New Zealand has become one of my favorite regions for Pinot Noir and Nobilo Icon doesn't disappoint. The grapes are sourced exclusively from Nobilo's Castle Cliffs Vineyards in Marlborough's Awatere Valley. The 20-year old Pinot Noir vines produce small grapes with intense flavors and aromas. The wine was barrel aged for 10 months but retains impressive freshness and rich fruit flavors that are enhanced by a hint of warm toast. Exuberant and nuanced with gorgeous dark cherry, blackberry, strawberry, and rhubarb flavors, this wine has the capacity to age very well -- I tasted several older vintages with David and they were still fresh and vibrant after almost ten years. Pair Nobilo Icon Pinot Noir with some lovely New Zealand lamb -- heaven!!! Great recipes and wine pairings are available on the Nobilo website.


With 75 years of winemaking under their belt, vineyards in idyllic Marlborough, and the winemaker's passion for crafting Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir wines that authentically express the character of their special terroir; Nobilo wines are absolutely New Zealand yet display their own distinctive style. 

Wine About Town: Kim Crawford, Guía Peñín, Wines of Southwest France

One of the many joys of wine is getting to spend time with the people that turn grapes into drinkable art; their talent and passion inspire me everyday. New York City is always a top destination for winemakers and my hometown hosts a never-ending parade of tasting events. My Wine About Town column showcases some of the marvelous winemakers & tastemakers that I've had the pleasure of sharing a bottle with at events in NYC. 

KIM CRAWFORD


Winemaker Anthony Walkenhorst, of New Zealand's acclaimed Kim Crawford winery, was recently in NYC at Mr. White restaurant to celebrate the debut of Kim Crawford Signature Reserve Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough 2017($24.99).



Grapes for this superbly balanced and luscious Sauvignon Blanc are sourced from selected small lots along Marlborough's coastal plains and valleys where they ripen slowly and develop exceptional flavor. Vibrant but not aggressively zingy, this refreshing white wine elegantly balances citrusy and tropical flavors with crisp minerality.

GUÍA PEÑÍN 

Ana Lopez Lidon, export manager for Gramona Cava, poured their exceptional sparkling wines at the Guía Peñin tasting in NYC. 

Direct from Spain, the Guîa Peñin tasting has become one of NYC's most anticipated wine events.



Guía Peñín is Spain's most influential wine ratings guide. Featuring top wines from throughout Spain, the event at City Winery beautifully showcased the high quality and diversity of Spanish wines. 

Enrique Valero, managing director of Abadía Retuerta in Spain's Duero Valley. 

Standouts at the tasting included Gramona Cava's exceptional sparkling wines and Abadía Retuerta's regal reds.

WINES OF SOUTHWEST FRANCE


Sommelier André Compeyre at the Wines of Southwest France Happy Hour 
image courtesy of Lydia Lee Photography

Wines of Southwest France hosted a festive happy hour at the French Cheese Board in Soho. Sommelier André Compeyre, of Aldo Sohm Wine Bar, led guests through a tasting of wines. Selected as the 2017 Wine Region of the Year by Wine Enthusiast magazine, as I've written before, Southwest France produces an impressive array of well-made wines, at great prices, from unique local grapes like Mauzac and Prunelard, as well as international varieties like Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon.

It was fun to catch up with Julien Ducos, export manager for Domaine du Tariquet. 

Southwest France has no shortage of talented winemakers. To get started, I recommend wines from Domaine du Moulin, Domaine du Tariquet, Jean-Luc Baldés Clos Triguedina, and Château Montus. 

Can't Buy Me Love But I'll Take a Bottle of Loveblock Wine!

Many of my friends tease me about being a hopeless romantic and I'm fine with that. One of the many reasons that I adore chatting with winemakers is their tendency to share my full wine glass perspective on life - why do anything halfway? Love and Mother Nature are the most powerful forces on the planet and devoting one's life to winemaking requires an optimistic but strong spirit that can withstand Mother Nature's mercurial moods. Whether the harvest is magnificently perfect or heartbreakingly challenging, a winemaker maintains a loving, patient, and respectful bond with nature. Erica Crawford of Loveblock brings all of this and more to the beautiful wines that she and her winemaker husband, the renowned Kim Crawford, produce in New Zealand. 

"We want to make the best wine we can, wine that speaks with the voice of naked terroir. To do this I hired the best winemaker I know." - Erica Crawford

Committed as partners in life and business, Erica and Kim also share a special connection with their vineyards, perched high on the hills overlooking Marlborough's Awatere Valley. The Crawfords purchased the untamed terrain in 2006 and as it was being cultivated, using organic and sustainable practices, Erica began to affectionately refer to it with the pet-name Loveblock. 


“I am Erica’s husband and the winemaker here at Loveblock. Making wine is really the only thing I have ever done; I’ve been doing it for almost 30 years now." - Kim Crawford
image courtesy of Loveblock

For the Crawfords, winemaking is a labour of love and passion and their wine absolutely expresses this energy. Elegant without pretension, Loveblock wines are evocative reminders that real wine tells a story. 

 Loveblock Sauvignon Blanc 2017 ($21.99)
An elegantly restrained Sauvignon Blanc that is vibrant but not aggressively zingy. Beautifully balanced stone fruit, tropical, and herbal flavors are supported by refreshing acidity and mineral texture. 


Loveblock Pinot Gris 2014 ($21.99)
And the fantastic flavor lingers on and on in this charming expression of Pinot Gris. Fresh but nuanced with an approachable complexity. 

Loveblock Pinot Noir 2014 ($29.99)
New Zealand has become one of my favorite regions for Pinot Noir and Loveblock's is stellar. Fruit-forward but quite sultry with plenty of finesse. 

To learn more about Loveblock, visit their website. Cheers! 

Beyond Burgundy: Pretty Fabulous Pinot Noir from Argentina, Oregon, and New Zealand

Considered the pinnacle of Pinot Noir, the Burgundy (Bourgogne) region of France is revered for elegant, ethereal, and expressive wines that stand the test of time. Often referred to as the heartbreak grape, Pinot Noir is a thin-skinned diva who requires constant attention and is very particular about where it will grow. Burgundy's cool climate and soil composition provide ideal conditions for fussy Pinot Noir grapes. Old World Burgundy may be the queen bee when it comes to Pinot Noir but many New World regions are making incredible wines from this demanding grape that really tests the skill (and patience) of a winemaker. (Wine Spectator defines the traditional winemaking regions of Europe as Old World and regions such as the United States, New Zealand, and South America as New World. These terms can also refer to the style of wine.) Recently, I tasted three wonderful Pinot Noir wines from Argentina, Oregon, and New Zealand that show the New World has what it takes to make wonderful wines from this challenging grape.   



BARDA by Bodega Chacra, Pinot Noir 2015 ($29.99)
Patagonia, Argentina

It was absolutely love at first sip with this exquisite Pinot Noir from the very Southern Hemisphere. When it comes to reds, Malbec reigns supreme in Argentina but Bodega Chacra focuses exclusively on Pinot Noir and their commitment has paid off beautifully. With picky Pinot Noir grapes, location is everything and Bodega Chacra's vineyards are located in the Río Negro Valley area of northern Patagonia, roughly equidistant from the Andes Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, in a pristine area with no pollution and ideal climatic conditions. This freshness and purity is a definitive trait of BARDA. Supple but not lazy, this is a Pinot Noir of exceptional grace and balance. Subtle but not shy, precise but not austere; BARDA is a joyful wine with beautiful red fruit flavors and hints of spice, tea leaves, and earth. BARDA displays depth and maturity but it isn't stodgy - this Pinot Noir absolutely soars. I only have two regrets with BARDA - that I didn't open it sooner and we finished the bottle way too quickly! 


Roserock Drouhin Oregon Pinot Noir 2014 ($38)
Eola-Amity Hills, Oregon

Fans of Burgundy are very familiar with the Drouhin name - the family has been producing superb Pinot Noir in the region for more than a century. Thirty years ago, they recognized the potential to also create world-class Pinot Noir in Oregon and launched Domaine Drouhin Oregon in 1987. Location is of utmost importance for Pinot Noir grapes and Roserock is located at the southern tip of the Eola-Amity Hills in the Willamette Valley. The cool climate, elevation, and ancient volcanic soils are a winning formula for the demands of Pinot Noir. Of course, once pristine grapes are harvested, the winemaker must exercise precision and intuition to create a wine that expresses the fruit and the terroir. Roserock succeeds in this endeavor and captures the spirit of Domaine Drouhin Oregon's motto "French Soul, Oregon Soil." Elegant and fruit-forward, Roserock opens up beautifully to reveal balanced flavors of cherry, dark berries, and an appealing hint of wild flowers, and rich earth.



Invivo Pinot Noir 2014 ($25) 
Central Otago, New Zealand 

Very new to the scene, Invivo launched in 2008 and the founders describe their wines as being "made from grapes, time, and two maxed out credit cards." Clearly, we're not in Burgundy anymore! From those humble beginnings, Invivo has quickly made a name for itself and is now one of the world's fastest growing wine brands - from just 12,000 bottles in 2014 to 1.5 million in 2017. Fruit-forward with a hint of sweetness, Invivo is a more modern and New World style of wine that is very approachable and a nice option for everyday sipping. Silky with flavors of sweet cherries and a touch of toast, this is a down-to-earth wine that shows the more playful side of Pinot Noir.  

 

 

A Sip of New Zealand: Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir from The Crossings

 Adrian Garforth, Master of Wine and CEO of Yealands Wine Group

"Life is too short to drink bad wine!" proclaimed Master of Wine, Adrian Garforth at a recent dinner he co-hosted with talented chef Ashton Keefe in New York City. As a Master of Wine (MW), Adrian belongs to an elite club of only 355 wine professionals around the world that passed a rigorous course of study in all aspects of wine. But Adrian's enthusiasm at dinner showed that wine experts don't have be stuffy and staid. Wine is meant to be enjoyed, take us on a sensory journey, and bring us together. 

Chef Ashton Keefe's menu paired beautifully with The Crossings wines. 

Zesty and refreshing, Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand is one of the superstars of the wine world. But there is plenty of variety within the category, from simple wines to those with more nuance and complexity. On the red side, Pinot Noir from New Zealand is also growing in popularity and offers a fresh take on this classic red. Adrian is also the CEO of Yealands Wine Group, one of New Zealand's most celebrated producers. Within the Yealands portfolio, The Crossings is a collection of wines from the Awatere Valley in Marlborough - a place where early pioneers crossed the fast-flowing Awatere River. The Crossings wines are described as an invitation to "explore Marlborough's adventurous side."


The Crossings Sauvignon Blanc 2016 ($15)
Sometimes grassiness can dominate the flavor of Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand, but that signature zest is more subdued and refined in this refreshing sip. Lively citrus flavors are bolstered by hints of tropical fruits and herbs. Crisp minerality adds superb structure and texture. A delightful apéritif and a great match with seafood. 



The Crossings Pinot Noir 2015 ($19.99)
Pinot Noir is known as the "heartbreak grape" because it so finicky and only grows well in particular regions of the world. But winemakers can't resist the lure of Pinot Noir because it can produce wines of extreme elegance that eloquently express a sense of place. Burgundy in France is considered the pinnacle of Pinot Noir wines but several New World regions, like Oregon and New Zealand, have shown their skill with this persnickety grape. Not as austere as a Burgundian Pinot Noir, this juicy offering from The Crossings has ripe berry and cherry flavors and a subtle savory streak. A more playful, but still well-made Pinot Noir, this food-friendly red pairs well with meats, from lamb to roast chicken. 

Superb Sauvignon Blanc and So Much More: Villa Maria Wines from New Zealand

With the unwavering popularity of Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand, it is easy to forget that this island nation in the south-west Pacific Ocean produces an array of beautiful wines. For a great exploration of the quality and diversity of New Zealand wines, Villa Maria is an ideal starting point. New Zealand's most awarded winery, Villa Maria was founded in 1961 in Auckland by George Fistonich when he was only 21years old. For many years, George managed Villa Maria as a one-man show, with support from his wife Gail, but today the company has grown extensively with vineyards throughout New Zealand and a large team of employees. A true trailblazer and icon of the New Zealand wine industry, Villa Maria's wines are available in more than 50 countries. 

Live from New Zealand with Villa Maria winemaker Helen Morrison! I explored these wonderful wines in a virtual tasting hosted by Mark Angelillo, co-founder and chief taster of Snooth.  

I recently participated in a virtual tasting of Villa Maria wines that was hosted by Snooth, an influential online community for winelovers. Winemaker Helen Morrison and Snooth's co-founder & chief taster Mark Angelillo guided us through six wines from the Villa Maria portfolio. Opening the bottles was a breeze because in 2001Villa Maria became a cork-free zone and moved completely to screwcaps. It was a bold move that has been emulated by winemakers in New Zealand and beyond, and proves that a screwcap does not mean that the wine inside the bottle is inferior. Also, screwcaps eliminate the heartbreak one feels when opening a bottle that turns out to be flawed because of a tainted cork. From a playful sparkling Sauvignon Blanc to a sophisticated Pinot Noir, I was impressed by the range and quality of the Villa Maria wines we sipped during the virtual tasting. 



Villa Maria Bubbly Sauvignon Blanc 2015 ($15)
Delicate bubbles and flavors of zesty lime and juicy melon make this fizzy Sauvignon Blanc a unique and delicious thirst-quencher. 

    Villa Maria Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc 2016 ($13)
Sourced from vineyards across Marlborough, this zingy but not overly grassy Sauvignon Blanc has great balance and juicy citrus flavors with a touch of fresh herbs.               

Villa Maria Private Bin Rosé 2016 ($14)  
Rosé all day, the Villa Maria way! Mostly merlot, this luscious sip is brimming with flavors of ripe wild strawberries and a kiss of spice. 


Villa Maria Taylors Pass Chardonnay 2015 ($45)
A single vineyard Chardonnay with impressive finesse and flavor. A touch of oak adds depth without overwhelming the richness of the fruit. An impressive balance of citrus, minerality, and lightly toasted brioche.  

Villa Maria Cellar Selection Pinot Noir 2014 ($26)
Graceful yet not shy, this is no one-note pinot noir. Layers of red fruit, spice, and earthy flavors evolve beautifully in the glass and lure you back for the next sip. 
 

Villa Maria Cellar Selection Merlot-Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 ($20)
Robust and rich but not jammy, this big red was crafted with a delicate touch. 

Villa Maria vineyards in Marlborough. They also have vineyards in Hawkes Bay, Auckland, and Gisborne.
image courtesy of Villa Maria 

These six wines represent only a small portion of the Villa Maria portfolio but clearly convey the diversity of their wines, commitment to quality, and ability to express a sense of New Zealand in each sip. I wouldn't hesitate to share any of these bottles with friends and other wine lovers. To learn more, visit the Villa Maria website. Cheers! 




  

 

 

Woo Them with Wine: Five Flirty Sips for Valentine's Day

Love it or hate it, ignoring Valentine's Day is almost impossible -- that darn Cupid is everywhere! Romance and wine are a perfect match but even if you don't have a sweetie, go ahead and treat yourself to a fantastic bottle!   

Ronco Calino Franciacorta Brut NV ($30)
Lombardy, Italy
Celebrate amore Italian style with this elegant bottle of Franciacorta. A Champagne-inspired sparkling blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, refreshing flavors of pear, apple, and citrus are balanced by crisp minerality and hints of brioche. And who can resist those tiny bubbles elegantly dancing in the glass? 

Bonterra Organic Vineyards Rosé 2016 ($15)
Mendocino County, California
There's something so flirty about a glass of rosé - the color catches your eye and lures you in for a sip. This California beauty is inspired by the pale and dry rosés of Provence but it definitely has West Coast vivaciousness. Mostly Grenache with a bit of Sangiovese and Nebbiolo, it is dry yet juicy with vibrant flavors of strawberry, watermelon, and a touch of peach. 

Medici Ermete Concerto Reggiano Lambrusco DOC 2015 ($22.99)
Emilia-Romagna, Italy
Who says you have to choose between sparkling and red - with Lambrusco you get both. The world's first single vineyard vintage Lambrusco, Concerto is a beautiful expression of the varietal. Dry with lively bubbles, this fizzy vino has fresh and juicy red berry flavors with a subtle hint of savory balsamic on the finish. 

 Loveblock Pinot Noir 2013 ($37)
Central Otago, New Zealand
Love is in the DNA of Loveblock Winery. Founded by the husband and wife team of Erica & Kim Crawford, the grapes for this elegant Pinot Noir are grown in a vineyard with the charming name of "Someone's Darling." This superb sip is juicy with vibrant acidity, earthiness, and beautiful flavors of blueberry, strawberry, hibiscus, blackberry, and a kiss of spice on the finish. Love may or may not be in the air but with Loveblock it is certainly in your wineglass! 


Trivento Amado Sur Malbec 2014 ($15)
Mendoza, Argentina
If the object of your affection is clueless about your feelings, this sexy South American vino will help to make things clear! The name Amado Sur means "Southern Love" in Spanish and this rich and velvety blend of mostly Malbec with hints of Bonarda, and Syrah is easy to fall for. Flavors of red berries and black cherries with a hint of black plum and a touch of spice set the mood for a romantic evening. 

Warm Your Nights with Winter Whites: Five Fabulous Wines from France, Italy, New Zealand, and South Africa

Rich red wines and chilly winter nights are a match made in heaven but the right glass of white wine can also warm your spirit! From South Africa to New Zealand, here are five fabulous white wines that are always in season. Go ahead and pour yourself a glass of sunshine!  



Famille Hugel Riesling Classic 2014 ($25)
Alsace, France

With more than 370 years of experience, the Hugel Family brings an abundance of know-how and passion to winemaking. Their excellent Riesling Classic is dry but exuberant with crisp minerality and mouthwatering flavors of white peach, green apple, and a touch of citrus. A sip is reminiscent of a tender kiss from someone you adore!



Loveblock Sauvignon Blanc 2015 ($24)
Marlborough, New Zealand

Share the love with this gorgeous bottle of Sauvignon Blanc. Vivacious flavors of tropical fruits and white peach are elegantly supported by solid minerality and flirty acidity. A beautifully crafted wine with plenty of personality. 

Kettmeir Müller-Thurgau 2015 ($22)
Alto Adige, Italy

Fruit and spice - this full-bodied white wine is oh-so-nice. Robust flavors of white peach and hints of nutmeg and mountain herbs make this lovely vino from northern Italy a supremely satisfying sip anytime of year. 



J.J. Vincent Pouilly-Fuissé Cuvée Marie Antoinette 2014 ($29)
Pouilly-Fuissé (southern Burgundy), France

As elegant as the perfect little black dress, this delightful Chardonnay sashays across the palate with crisp minerality, vibrant acidity and fresh flavors of apple, peach, and a kiss of vanilla. Très chic! 

 De Bos Sur Lie Chenin Blanc 2014 ($16)
Wellington, South Africa

Chenin Blanc is a fantastic French varietal and South Africa produces some of the very best. De Bos's medium-bodied Chenin Blanc has tantalizing flavors of peach, pineapple, persimmon, and citrus that are balanced beautifully by a subtle vanilla cream finish. 

 

Craggy Range Pinot Noir: A Singular Sip from New Zealand

Craggy Range chief winemaker Matt Stafford says "Pinot Noir is hard to tame." Their wonderful wines prove that this labor of love is worth the effort.

Exuberant and easy-going Sauvignon Blanc may have been New Zealand's calling card to wine drinkers around the world, but don't ignore their superb Pinot Noir - it may be the country's biggest surprise of all. I've enjoyed a few Pinot Noirs from New Zealand this year and the name Craggy Range kept popping up in conversations as one that I must try. Well, I finally had the chance to give Craggy Range a swirl with their chief winemaker Matt Stafford. Quite appropriately, lunch with Matt was hosted at The Musket Room - a Michelin starred restaurant in New York City that has been wowing critics and diners with culinary creations inspired by the spirit of New Zealand. Not a bad way to spend a steamy summer day in Manhattan! 



Founded in 1997, Craggy Range is a relatively young winery but they have made quite an impression in New Zealand in beyond. A partnership between international businessman extraordinaire Terry Peabody and family, and Master of Wine Steve Smith (the only specialist viticulturist in the world to hold this prestigious title), Craggy Range was founded at the not-so-subtle suggestion of Terry's wife Mary and daughter Mary-Jeanne that a winery would fulfill their wish to have an enduring family legacy. Craggy Range exclusively crafts single-vineyard, terroir-driven wines and their consistent 90+ scores, vintage after vintage, have played a major role in bolstering New Zealand's winemaking reputation. Craggy Range was honored by Wine Enthusiast magazine as the 2014 New World Winery of the Year. The Peabody family legacy is off to an auspicious start.  

Pinot Noir has its roots in Burgundy and while it may be easy to drink, growing it is a different story. Known as the heartbreak grape, famously fickle Pinot Noir is prone to mutation and extremely sensitive to temperature. Like a fairy-tale princess, everything has to be just right for Pinot Noir to thrive. But winemakers keep risking heartbreak because Pinot Noir has a poetic ability to express terroir. I definitely noticed some Burgundian finesse in Craggy Range's Pinot Noir but these wines are absolutely New Zealand and showcase the uniqueness of Craggy Range's vineyards.

Te Muna Road Vineyard

Our guided tasting with Matt focused on Pinot Noir from Craggy Range's Te Muna Road vineyard in the cool-climate region of Martinborough at the southeastern tip of the North Island. Craggy Range also produces wine at their Gimblett Gravels vineyard in Hawke's Bay. Te Muna means "The Secret" in Maori and this name has special resonance for the founding family of the vineyard - "under the first vine of block one inside the gate of this beautiful young Martinborough vineyard, (established in 1999) Aunt Sally, an elderly and wise Maori woman buried a piece of the Peabody’s family silver as a good luck omen." Aunt Sally is clearly the vineyard whisperer because Terry Peabody says that "it is still the strongest vine in the vineyard."


image courtesy of Craggy Road

2013 was described as a very good growing season at Craggy Range's Martinborough vineyard and this is apparent in the glass - Te Muna Road Vineyard Pinot Noir 2013 ($44.99) had an elegant earthiness that I absolutely adored. Flavors of tart cherry, hibiscus, rose petals, and rich earth are balanced by soft tannins. Subtle but sublime, this is a smart wine without pretension.


The Musket Room's dish of Berkshire pork with kale, clementine, and cauliflower paired beautifully with Craggy Range Pinot Noir.


image courtesy of Craggy Range

Meaning love or affection in Maori, wines bearing the Aroha label are lovingly crafted from two unique parcels of Pinot Noir from Te Muna Road, including the legendary Abel clone which can be traced back to one of Burgundy's finest vineyards. If you love Pinot Noir from Burgundy, you'll detect a certain Burgundian regalness and complexity in the Aroha wines. Aroha 2012 ($104.99) is a splurge but your taste buds will thank you - it envelops your palate in flavors of dark cherry with a touch of luscious plum that are balanced by a thread of dried herbs and subtle spices. Impeccably structured but lithe and graceful, Aroha is delightful now and will age beautifully. Pair with duck, lamb, pork, and game.



In addition to Pinot Noir, Craggy Range produces many other stellar varietals; including Sauvingon Blanc, Syrah, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Riesling. If you're planning a trip to New Zealand, visitors are welcome for tours and tastings at their Giant's Winery in Hawke's Bay. The complex and vineyard is also home to their award-winning Terrôir Restaurant and luxurious accommodations are available in Vineyard Cottages and The Lodge. Sounds like the perfect wine adventure - grab a bottle of Craggy Range and start planning your wine holiday! 

Loveblock Makes New Zealand Wines with Heart & Soul

“Loveblock is a true love story,” founder & CEO Erica Crawford said,” it is one of depth and dedication." 

A conversation with Loveblock winery founder Erica Crawford reminds you that love isn't just an emotion - it can be a catalyst for creating something truly special. When wine industry veteran Erica and her award-winning winemaker husband Kim stood on the hills overlooking Marlborough's Awatere Valley in New Zealand, they fell in love with the stunning view. They purchased the property in 2006 and to make the wines, Erica jokes that she “hired the best winemaker I know – my husband." They devoted themselves to creating authentic wines from the wild terrain that had stolen their hearts and the result of their commitment can be tasted in how eloquently Loveblock wines express a sense of place.


“The land has its own rhythm and we respect that,” Erica says. “We don’t try to change that rhythm. We submit to that and the deep, intimate relationship it demands from those who work the land. We are the custodians of the land, and our reward is the elegant, yet complex wines made from the grapes we grow.”

Sauvignon Blanc put New Zealand on the map for wine lovers but not all are created equal. The global popularity of the wine has flooded the market with many industrial wines but Loveblock Sauvignon Blanc is an ode to quality winemaking.


Grown in accordance with organic certification standards, Loveblock's Sauvignon Blanc grapes are sourced from estate vineyards in Marlborough. While many Sauvignon Blancs from New Zealand can be aggressively grassy, Loveblock is proof of the power of subtlety. Pale and almost clear, it has luscious flavors of white peach with just a hint of herbaceousness and outstanding minerality. Pair with fresh oysters, sashimi, and virtually any light & fresh seafood dish. Suggested retail price for Loveblock Sauvignon Blanc 2015 is $24.


Another beauty from the Loveblock portfolio is their deliciously dry Pinot Gris. Its delicate flavors of lime and green tea paired brilliantly with this dish of sea scallop ceviche from Grand Banks in New York City. An absolutely delightful wine that is perfect for al fresco dining. Suggested retail price for Loveblock Pinot Gris 2013 is $26.99



I'm having quite a love affair with Pinot Noir from New Zealand and Loveblock is one I can commit to! Sourced from their Someone's Darling estate way down south in Central Otago, this wine showcases dark fruit flavors with a touch of spice. Balanced and luscious with a lively acidity, this wine is so easy to love. Suggested retail price for Loveblock Pinot Noir 2012 is $34.


Kim and Erica Crawford

"Our vineyards, one at the north end of New Zealand’s South Island, the other at the south end, might be hundreds of miles apart, but love surely connects them" says Kim.  


Visit the Loveblock website to learn more about their wines. Cheers! 

Summertime and the Sipping is Easy: Kim Crawford Wines from New Zealand

Absolutely breathtaking - Kim Crawford's vineyards in New Zealand's Marlborough region. They also grow grapes in Central Otogo, Hawke's Bay, Gisborne, and Canterbury.
 

Keeping life simple is essential to staying cool as the temperature rises and a chilled glass of white wine is one of the chicest and easiest ways to handle the heat. Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris are three refreshing summer sips and Kim Crawford Wines offers each for under $20 and in screw cap bottles that eliminate that pesky extra step of trying to find the corkscrew. One of New Zealand's best-known and acclaimed winemakers, Kim Crawford Wines can be found around the world.

I think there's a law that says that you can't discuss New Zealand wines without mentioning Sauvignon Blanc.  And for good reason - the grape may have its roots in France but New Zealand's terroir really unleashes Sauvignon Blanc's zestiness. Kim Crawford 2014 Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc ($17.99) tastes like summer with its vibrant acidity and juicy flavors of pineapple, melon, and peach with a sassy touch of that signature New Zealand grassiness - a perky and pretty wine! Suggested food pairings - asparagus, oysters, salads.
 

Kim Crawford 2014 Unoaked Chardonnay ($16.99) reminded me how delicious Chardonnay can be if you just let the grape shine without oaking it into submission. Full-bodied but fruit-forward; flavors of citrus, pear, apricot, and a hint of butterscotch shine in this lovely wine. Suggested food pairings - fresh seafood, grilled chicken.



Kim Crawford 2014 Pinot Gris ($17) is a well-balanced wine with an easy sophistication. Hints of spice & earth with a touch of flint are a nice complement to the wine's flavors of pear, honeysuckle and citrus. Suggested food pairings - antipasto, fresh seafood, South Asian cuisine.

Related articles

Making Second Chic: Bordeaux Second Label Wines

Farm to Glass: Tom Gore Vineyards

Sipping New Zealand with Nobilo on International Sauvignon Blanc Day

One of the beautiful Nobilo vineyards in New Zealand.
Did you know that in 2014, 72% of all wine produced in New Zealand was Sauvignon Blanc?

 International Sauvignon Blanc Day may not appear on your calendar as an official holiday but I'm all for a holiday that celebrates wine! On April 24th, wine lovers around the globe will raise their glasses in honor of the feisty little white wine that is Sauvignon Blanc - get in on the fun!

Sauvignon Blanc is so closely identified with New Zealand that it is hard to believe that the varietal wasn't planted in the region until the 1970's and winemaker Nikola Nobilo was one of the first to do so. Today, Sauvignon Blanc is New Zealand's most popular varietal and represents 86% of the wine they export. So, it seems fitting to sip Nobilo wines on International Sauvignon Blanc Day. Affordable and delicious, here are two expressions of Sauvignon Blanc from Nobilo crafted by their senior winemaker Dave Edmonds. These are perfect sips for the spring and summer season.


2014 Nobilo Regional Collection Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc ($13)
A very classic expression of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, the 2014 Nobilo has vivacious notes of fresh cut green grass, tropical pineapple, and juicy citrus. Fruity with a zippy acidity, this pale yellow wine pairs perfect with sunny days, seafood, salads, and light poultry dishes.



2014 Nobilo Icon Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc ($22)
This wine definitely has the classic tropical fruit flavors and green grass freshness that are hallmarks of Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand but it also has a minerality and flinty backbone that gives it a more refined structure. A nicely balanced wine that just calls out to be paired with fun times and seafood.

 

Related articles

Springtime in a Glass: Ponzi Pinot Gris 2014

Sipping Pretty: Three Days of Rosé (Day 1): Pascal Jolivet Sancerre Rosé 2014

A Mavericky Sip: Yealands Family Wines from New Zealand

 

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.