I’m a full-flavor kinda guy most of the time, so I’ve always been most intrigued by the wines of the Kiwi. The Villa Maria wines fall right into my wheelhouse.
Villa Maria was founded by George Fistonich in 1961 as a five-acre vineyard in Auckland. He and his wife ran the show themselves until he expanded in the 1970s. They now have estate vineyards on both the North and South islands. Sir George was knighted by his government in 2009 for his service to the nation's wine industry. He took Villa Maria 100% screwcap in 2001.
The winery now has estate vineyards on both the North and South islands:
- Auckland is a warm-temperate climate, with warm, humid summers and mild, damp winters. It's the country’s largest population center.
- Gisborne is in the northeastern corner of the North Island and is also called the East Cape or East Coast. It's known for its warm summers and mild winters.
- Hawke's Bay in on the North Island's east coast. Long, hot summers and cool winters.
- Marlborough is located in the northeast of the South Island. It's New Zealand's sunniest spot. The Villa Maria winery here opened in 2000.
Private Bin Hawke's Bay Rosé Blend 2017
This wine is made from a combination of grapes taken from throughout New Zealand's east coast. The grapes were gently crushed with some getting extra skin contact to release their color to the wine. The remainder were pressed "straight to tank." The wine is imported by Ste. Michelle Wine Estates and sits at a low 12% abv.
This wine is nearly neon, the salmon pink-orange is so deep and rich. Its nose smells of strawberries and an overlay of herbal notes. It's not quite like Provence, but it's close. The dry palate is gorgeous, full of that bushel basket of strawberries and an earthy quality on top. The acidity is rather gentle so sipping it is recommended. However, it will pair nicely with salads and snacks.
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