Tasting Te Whare Ra (Marlborough, NZ)

2011 Te Whare Ra “Toru” – Perhaps the best of an outstanding lineup from wife and husband winemakers/owners Anna and Jason Flowerday. A lovely blend of Gewürztraminer, Riesling, and Pinot Gris, it’s cotton candy and bubblegum but deftly avoids being cloying with just the right balance of acidity. “Toru” is the Maori word for “three” meaning the 3 varieties making up this wine. ***1/2

2011 Te Whare Ra Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough) – almost clear color, delicate, pineapple **

2011 Te Whare Ra Riesling “D” – their Dry Riesling… Banana… Nice. **1/2

2011 Te Whare Ra Riesling “M” – their Medium Dry Riesling *

2011 Te Whare Ra Pinot Gris – bubblegum flavor *1/2

2010 Te Whare Ra Chardonnay – really lovely drinking with distinctive roasted coconut element ***

Te Whare Ra is a biodynamic and organic winery.