A busy morning beckoned as we got stuck into our first full day in Marlborough. This region has become the powerhouse of New Zealand wine production in a meteoric 30 year ascent.
Greywacke
Fitting, perhaps that we should meet first Kevin Judd – owner of Greywacke estate but at the winemaking helm of Cloudy Bay for 25 years during which it became the classic icon that set Sauvignon Blanc on its path to glory. Understated and softly spoken, but clearly a man with a very clear and uncluttered approach to top class winemaking. Fabulous wines – absolutely top class.
Clos Henri was our next stop. Top Sancerre producer Henri Bourgeois has invested significantly in Marlborough and make three Sauvignon Blancs and three Pinot Noirs. These illustrate the varying terroir and age of vines and are also a very European expression of the two grapes. Crisp acidity and hint of austerity pervade yet the wines are clean and balanced. Very different to what oe expects from Marlborough.
We were very lucky to meet Beth Forrest – the next generation of the Forrest wine family and a winemaker in her own right with extensive experience in wineries all over the world. Beth gave us a detailed insight into the Forrest family vineyards and then conducted a terrific 11 wine tasting that showcased the style and individuality of this wonderful estate.