Love Kiwi wine but bored of Marlborough?

Though there are some real gems (such as Mahi) coming out of the Marlborough region of New Zealand's South Island, many of them are becoming disappointingly formulaic. Sauvingon Blanc, for sometime now the countries calling card is predictibly grassy with a punchy acidity (often artificially enhanced) and somewhat mechanised.

Fine wine production really only took off in New Zealand in the 1970's, and since then a handful of dedicated wine makers and growers have been forging ahead, matching varietals to the terroir, exploring microclimates and alternative viticultural practicies such as organic and biodynamic farming and pushing the boundaries of what has been a recently type cast wine region.

Nelson is one of the most exciting of New Zealand's up and coming wine making regions. Situated to the north-west of it's famous neighbour Marlborough, it is not only cooler but it is protected from the rain by mountains to the west, it gets plenty of sunshine and the climate is moderated by its proximity to the sea. This typically makes harvest about 2 weeks later than Marlborough, and produces wines of exceptional elegance and restraint. In short it has the perfect climate for cool climate aromatic European grapes such as Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling and Pinot Noir. Combine this with a varied and exciting range of terroirs allowing for wines of individuality, depth and expression and you're onto a winner.

Woollaston Winery is one that immediately catches the imagination, for it is typical of the new breed of wine making philosophy which is being pioneered across the country. That they are making boutique, hand crafted wines that reflect the passion of the land and the wine maker goes without saying. However they have taken this a step further by making it a certified Sustainable winery. This encourages the adoption in the vineyards and winery of best practice options that minimise environmental impact ie through the use of gravity to reduce electricity, they even have tussock grass growning from the roof of the winery to insulate it.. They are currently working towards full Organic status.

Now, enough about their green credentials, lets talk about the wines!

Woollaston Sauvignon Blanc 2008 £10.99
A wine of wonderful balance, fresh passion fruit and subtle sherbet give zest and a mouth watering juiciness, while the back bone of minerality gives struces, elegance and beauty. Moreish yet classy it is a great alternative to the harsher Marlborough Sauvignon's, something you can really show off when serving. Great with smoked fish, asparagus, Sushi and Dim Sum.

Woollaston Riesling 2007 £10.99 retail
A deserved Gold Medal at the International Wine Challenge, this wine has blasted its way onto the international stage. Quite often a grape that is feared, this is a magical little number that I would wager could swing the hardest heart and palate in its favour. Sweet citrus blossom and lime on the nose are enriched with mandarin and minerals on the palate. A fabulously rich and textured mouthfeel, it has a delightfully dry finish make it a cracking combination with spicy Asian dishes, rich shellfish done over smoky coals and Sushi.

Woollaston Pinot Noir 2006 £16.99 retail
Red plums and black cherry marry beautifully with a delicious savoury edge of smoky gammon and subtle spicy oak. integrated and balanced, with wonderfully supple tannins it provides a wonderful value alternative to Burgundy. A real treat served with peking duck, gamefish, lamb, venison and creamy blue cheese.

In short they are exciting, modern, green, great value, flipping delicious and available in the UK through Novum Wines. Don't follow the established wine paths, forge ahead with great wines such as these and you won't be disappointed. Just don't be suprised when you keep being asked to provide the wine at dinner parties!