We are passionate about aromatic varieties and particularly those from Alsace so it was only a matter of time until we took on the challenge of Pinot Gris. When we first bought the property here, we replanted a section of the old block with the Berry-Smith clone (also known as Larkham clone) of Pinot Gris.
We selected this particular clone especially for its low cropping, small bunches and small berries as we felt it would deliver the best quality fruit. Pinot Gris is the “sister” of Pinot Noir and shares many of its familial “issues”. It is quite crop sensitive and we feel that to get the best out of it you really have to go the extra mile in the vineyard. So like Pinot Noir it is all shoot-thinned, and bunch thinned and we often remove the bunch shoulders as well. This means that we can get it into the winery with lovely fruit purity as well as concentration.
This wine is finely structured with great purity & length of flavour and a lovely fleshiness. Lifted aromas of nashi pear, raspberry, red apple and white florals follow on to flavours of the same along with savoury undertones which are balanced by fine, supple texture and lingering minerality. This release is a dry style which has concentration, balance and great texture with layers of flavour.
Cameron Douglas MS – 94 Points – 2020 Vintage Ripe, fruity, varietal, floral and gently spicy bouquet. Aromas and flavours of white nectarine and Asian pear, yellow apple and lychee nut. A fine complex layer of tangerine and lemon peel, blossoms and white pepper add complexity and depth. Silky texture with plenty of acidity to contrast a core of fruit flavours. A gentle warming alcohol carries the flavours and textures through a lengthy finish. Excellent example in a drier style, balanced and well made. Drink now and through 2024+
Bob Campbell MW – 92 Points – 2020 Vintage Delicately aromatic Pinot Gris with crisp pear, apple and subtle honeysuckle flavours. Dry but not austere, with a mouth-watering line of acidity that promotes a lengthy finish. A bright, refreshing wine. Drink 2021–2024
Te Whare Ra (TWR) is a small vineyard and winery located in the Marlborough sub-region of Renwick, owned by winemakers – Anna & Jason Flowerday. The 11 Ha vineyard which has predominantly loam over clay soils, is one of the oldest in Marlborough, originally planted in 1979. Yields are kept low, the vineyard is managed with a combination of organic and biodynamic practices and all the fruit is hand picked and hand-sorted.
The wines are made with minimal intervention in a small winery which has been specifically set up for small batch winemaking. TWR produces Gewürztraminer, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, an aromatic blend called Toru, Rose, Pinot Noir and Syrah. Our Cellar Door is open for wine sales and tastings from November till we start harvest in March. During this time we’re open weekdays from 11 – 4 and some weekends when the vineyard and family time permits.
