In 1994, Hans Herzog identified a piece of land a long way from home in Marlborough, one of the sunniest and driest climates in New Zealand.

The arid sandy and gravelly soils on the right bank of the Wairau River reminded him of the Médoc region in Bordeaux with its late ripening Cabernet, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc.

This river creates a special microclimate and the free draining soils make it one of the warmest and most valuable blocks in Marlborough.

Featured in Michel Bettane’s ‘World Greatest Wines’ and 96 Points from James Suckling: "Dense lemon rind with pineapple and sliced green apple. Full-bodied, yet energetic and vibrant. Zesty and energetic. Bitter lemon. A wild viognier. From organically grown grapes."

Can stand up to very flavourful dishes, e.g. Asian cuisine. Great with seafood and white meat (chicken, veal etc.).

Tasting Note: Head-spinningly rich, gold-brocade-shimmering quince and apricot fruit on the nose with an undertow of sweet spice and honeysuckle. A show stopping bouquet and explosion dripping with honey and exotic fruit with a tantalizing and teasing fresh acidity. The rich mouthfeel leads to a sumptuous and long lingering finish with finesse.

Origin: Marlborough, New Zealand

Alcohol: 14.3%

Blend: Viognier