2009 was the first harvest of our new variety Pinot Gris.  Planted on the top terrace of the Tupari vineyard the new vines were cared for meticulously by attendant vineyard staff. The crop was carefully managed throughout the season to ensure the yields were low creating a concentrated wine with rich flavours.

As the season was warm and dry and we were able to leave the Pinot Gris to reach optimum ripeness.  Following harvest in the cool of night the juice was carefully fermented and the process was brought to a halt with a few grams of sugar remaining. 

The 2009 Tupari Pinot Gris is a rich, ripe style with vibrant flavours.  The nose shows fresh pear juice and a hint of spice.  The pallet is mouth filling with a dry finish.  This wine will go beautifully with Japanese food.  Drink now and until 2012.

Click here for full Tasting Notes

Reviews:

New Zealand Listener - Michael Cooper

Score:  5 Stars

"Glenn Thomas made the first wine grown in the Awatere Valley – Vavasour Fumé Blanc 1989 – so brings unrivalled experience to Tupari, a single-vineyard Awatere Valley label of which he is a part-owner. Beautifully scented, the wine is mouthfilling, with pure pear, lychee and spice flavours, a slightly oily texture and a dryish, well-rounded harmonious finish. Hard to resist."

www.listener.co.nz

Wine Orbit - Sam Kim (Senior Wine Judge)

Score:  93/100 (5 Stars)

"This is seriously good.  A single vineyard wine from the upper Awatere Valley terraces by the renowned winemaker, Glenn Thomas, the intense bouquet shows pear, citrus and peach characters. The palate is lush and silky with a touch of sweetness (7.5g/l) and refreshing acidity. A wine like this will ensure the continued popularity of Pinot Gris. At its best: now to 2012

www.wineorbit.co.nz