Wine Orbit - Hampshire Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2023

A very pale lime-straw colour in the glass. A pungent varietal nose filled with lemongrass, blackcurrant, capsicum, gooseberry, golden apple, passion fruit and freshly crushed green herbs. Not only true to the scent of Marlborough Sav, but has a good sub-regional typicity, with clean, zesty oyster shell minerality to it. Dry, but with a lilt of lush fruit adding a ripe harmony to the palate. Vivid, chalky acidity is measured through the middle, with a length and tightness that lasts into the quenching finish, with decent length. 92pts

Wine Orbit - Hampshire Vineyards Pinot Gris 2023

A translucent pale lemon-green colour in the glass. Vibrant aromatics of nashi pear, ginger, lemon, hay, apple, almond, caramel and honeysuckle. The palate is dry but has a plush ripeness to it that gives an impression of sweetness and width. Both a stony minerality and grassy herbal note add a lift of freshness and energy. Texture is then important, with a mouth-filling generosity giving depth and roundness over that crisp fruit. A rather fine start to their label. 92pts

Candice Chow - Hampshire Vineyards Pinot Gris 2023, Marlborough

Bright, even, pale yellow. The nose is gently full and elegant, with pear, apple, white floral and ginger aromas. Medium-full bodied, aromas of ripe pear entwined with golden apple, honeysuckle and ginger dusting. The mouthfeel is silky and delicate; lively acidity carries spice to a clean, crisp finish. This Pinot Gris shows harmonious flavours with excellent balance; an oily and smooth palate elevates a pleasing finish. Match with dim sum and pork tacos over the next 3+ years. Fruit from Awatere Valley, fermented to 13.5% alc, 2.4 g/l RS. 18.5/20 pts 93 pts