INTERNATIONAL WINE CHALLENGE 2011
There must be something in the water in central Otago. New Zealand secured two trophies at the 2011 International Wine Challenge and both were from central Otago and both linked to Adam Peren of Peregrine Wines fame. The Bouchard Finlayson Trophy for Pinot Noir was awarded to Peregrine Pinot Noir 2009 (this wine, which is no longer available, was also the Champion Wine of the Air NZ Wine Awards 2010). More surprisingly New Zealand had its biggest international success with a Riesling produced by Peren Farms. Two Sisters Vineyard Riesling 2007 won the LIWSF Trophy for Single Vineyard White Wine. In addition to the two trophy winners, New Zealand secured 18 Gold medals, its highest total to date in this competition. click for more

CUISINE MAGAZINE RATES PINOT NOIR
They say making Pinot noir is often likened to the pursuit of the Holy Grail. According to John Belsham, chair of the Cuisine panel, which recently rated nearly 300 Pinot’s, “New Zealand is clearly a leader in New World pinot. The challenge now for this country's best producers is to transcend making wines that are noticed, to wines that are revered.” 14 wines received 5 star ratings and the Top 10 were: Olssens Jackson Barry Pinot Noir 2009, Whitehaven Greg Pinot Noir 2009, Thornbury Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009, Domain Road Vineyard Pinot Noir 2009, Giesen Marlborough Pinot Noir The Brothers 2009, Amisfield Pinot noir 2009, Wild Earth Deep Cove Pinot Noir 2009,, Wooing Tree Pinot Noir 2009, Soho Pinot Noir 2010 and Boundary Vineyards Kings Road Waipara Pinot Noir 2010.. click for more

NOVEMBERS WINNING WINE SPY VALLEY PINOT NOIR 2010
Being one of the Best Buys in Cuisines recent Pinot Noir review just adds to the attractiveness of this wine. That and a clutch of international competition successes have given this wine the accolades it deserves. No need to break the bank buying this one. The US Wine spectator magazine in giving this wine 92 points noted: Digs deep into the spice box, with nutmeg, clove and allspice flavors that perfectly frame the ripe, supple wild black cherry and raspberry notes. Comes together on a supple frame, with plenty of staying power on the finish. What else can I say!! click for more

WHAT ARE THE ODDS
Everyone will be aware of the MV Rena disaster, but did you know about a rather unique happening. Rena ran aground on Astrolabe Reef, just outside the Port of Tauranga. On board Rena, among other things, were 4000 cases of Sauvignon Blanc destined for Ireland. And the name of the Sauvignon Blanc – Astrolabe! And as a further coincidence, Jason Yank, the general manager of Astrolabe Wines is referred to on the company’s web site as “captain of the ship.” Pity Jason was not on Rena when it was heading to Tauranga – he may have been more successful in getting to Tauranga. click for more