Charles Wiffen Wines – Archive

FEATURED WINES IN THIS REVIEW

• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2010
  Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 17-Aug-2011

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Early and later fruit harvesting for a range of fruit expression, fermented to 13.3% alc. and 2.5 g/L rs, 6% in seasoned French oak. Very pale straw-yellow colour with a pale edge, this has a very powerful and intense nose of grass, English gooseberries and nettles with fresh garden herbs. The bouquet is very fresh and brash. Dry to taste, this is still very tightly bound, but shows intense and concentrated herb, nettle and grassy flavours with a degree of sweetness and succulence. Crisp, slippery acidity contributes to the fruit exuberance and drives the palate to the sustained finish. Drink this driven, linear and zesty wine with seafood, poultry and vegetarian dishes over the next 2-3+ years. 18.0-/20 Aug 2011 RRP $21.35 Youthful pale straw-yellow in colour, this has a powerful and intense bouquet of grassy, herbaceous and nettle-like fruit, pungent and punchy, yet tightly bound. Carrying 13.3% alc. and around 3 g/L rs, this surprises with the degree of fruit sweetness and succulence of the herb and nettle-like, English gooseberry fruit flavours. While the acidity is racy and lively, the textures are soft. A wine that will match shellfish, salads, vegetables and herb marinated poultry over the next 2-3 years.  Apr 2011  RRP $21.35 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2011
  Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 07-Jun-2012

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Fruit sourced from a selection of ‘Wiffen' blocks, 10% fermented in seasoned French oak barriques to 13.0% alc. and 2.1 g/L rs, the wine given light lees contact. Bright, very pale straw colour with some green hues, pale on rim. The nose is softly full and voluminous, showing ripe gooseberry fruit, yellow capsicums and subtle hints of tropical fruits. Dry to taste, clean, fresh gooseberry and capsicum flavours gently unfold and flow seamlessly through the palate. The mouthfeel is smooth and the acidity is well-balanced and lacy. There is a gradual building of weight and presence which adds to the drive, leading to a moderately long, delicately nuance finish of limes and white florals. This is a gently expressed Sauvignon Blanc with good presence and fine textures to match with seafood and poultry dishes over the next 2 years. 17.5-/20 Jun 2012 RRP $21.35 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2012
  Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 09-Apr-2013

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, pale straw colour with slight green hues. The nose is fresh, bright and lively with aromas od gooseberries and blackcurrant leaf, aromatically lifted with nuances of tropical fruits, citrus, green capsicums and nettle-like notes. Dry to taste, tightly bound flavours of gooseberries, blackcurrant leaves, capsicums and herbs form an elegantly concentrated core. The mouthfeel is fine and firm with slippery, mouthwatering acidity. The flavours flow with good linearity and subtle textures to a moderately sustained, dry finish featuring white florals, fresh herbs and limes. This is an elegant ant tightly contained, thirst-quenching Sauvignon Blanc with aromatic gooseberry flavours. Serve with seafood, salads, vegetables and most Asian fare over the next 2 years. Fruit from various parcels from the Wiffen vineyards in the Southern Valleys, fermented with 15% in seasoned French barriques to 12.9% alc. and 2.3 g/L rs. 17.5+/20 Apr 2013 RRP $21.35 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates

• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2013
  Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 20-Nov-2013

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright pale straw colour near colourless on rim. This has a fresh and gentle bouquet with delicate and lifted aromas of gooseberries, yellow stonefruits and herbs, revealing lifted floral and sweet pea notes in the glass. Dry to taste and medium-bodied, moderately concentrated and bound fruit flavours of sweet, ripe gooseberries intermingle with yellow stonefruits and herbs, forming a smooth flowing core and palate line. Some fine drying textures and fresh, firm, mouthwatering acidity underlines the fruitiness, bringing out lifted floral and herbal nuances. The flavours follow a crisp, textural line to a long and sustained, dry, minerally finish. This is an attractive, mouthwateringly dry Sauvignon Blanc with and array of aromatic fruit flavours. Match with antipasto, tapas, seafood and vegetables over the next 2 years. Fruit from the ‘Wiffen’ blocks in the Southern Valleys, fermented with 14% in seasoned French oak barriques to 13.3% alc. and 1.1 g/L RS. 18.0-/20 Nov 2013 RRP $21.35 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates

• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2014
  Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 11-Jan-2015

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, very pale straw colour with slight green hues, near colourless on edge. This has a very fresh and intense nose with concentrated aromas of gooseberry fruit entwined with grassy and nettle-like elements, along with lifted lime, green capsicum and mineral nuances. Dry to taste, tightly bound fruit flavours of gooseberries, grass and minerals show with clarity and focus. The mouthfeel is crisp, racy and refreshing with bracing acidity, and the wine follows a very fine-textured line. The palate leads to a dry, chalky, minerally, mouthwatering finish. This is a crisp, racy and dry, gooseberry-fruited Sauvignon Blanc with focus and clarity. Serve as an aperitif, with seafood and Pacific Rim fare over the next 2 years. Fruit from the Wiffen’s ‘Flipper’ block, cool-fermented in stainless-steel to 13.2% alc. and 1.6 g/L RS, the wine aged on lees. 17.5+/20 Nov 2014 RRP $21.35 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Riesling 2009
  Riesling from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 13-Sep-2011

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Pale straw-yellow with a pale edge and hues of green, this has a softly tight nose of lime fruit with a little honey and minerals showing along with a little secondary toasty complexity appearing. Off-dry, this has fresh acidity driving the palate line of lime fruits, yellow florals and honey. Some secondary toasty notes are showing, as well as a fine, phenolic textural thread. The finish blossoms with florals and honey and is sustained. 80% of the fruit is from old vines from the ‘Wiffen' vineyard. Fermented to 12.3% alc. with 12 g/L rs, Drink as an aperitif and with Asian cuisine over the next 4-5 years. 18.0-/20 Sep 2011 RRP $20.15 Pale straw-yellow in colour, with bright aromas of limes and honey, and the beginnings of secondary toasty complexities. This is an elegant wine at 12.3% alc., and dry tasting, the 12 g/L rs countered by the lively, racy acidity. Excellent fruit interest with the toasty notes adding another layer. This should drink well for another 4-5+ years.  Apr 2011  RRP $20.15 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Riesling 2010
  Riesling from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 04-Apr-2012

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, even, light straw-yellow colour with light golden hues. This has a soft, delicate and subtle bouquet that gently grows in volume, showing detailed citrus fruit and honeysuckle notes, and faint secondary toasty nuances. Dryish to taste, the palate is tight and restrained, with delicate and lively yellow floral, honeysuckle and citrus fruit flavours beautifully poised on a crisp and very fine-featured palate. This is smooth and refined in mouthfeel, the sweetness and luscious elements unfolding with nuances of toast and minerals. The palate has a refined, concentrated core that leads to a very long, lingering finish featuring lime and lemon, honey and toast all intermingling. Fruit from three blocks in the Wither Hills and Southern Valleys area, 61% from old vines from two Charles Wiffen vineyards, cool-fermented in stainless-steel to 11.7% alc., 15 g/L rs, with a pH of 2.7 and TA 8.6 g/L. This is a tight and refined dryish Riesling with detailed floral and honey flavours, now just beginning to show some bottle development nuances. Serve as an aperitif or with Asian cuisine over the next 5-6+ years. 18.5+/20 Apr 2012 RRP $20.15 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Riesling 2011
  Riesling from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 06-May-2015

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Brilliant straw-yellow colour with lemon-green hues, lighter edged. This has an elegant but intensely penetrating and tightly bound bouquet of steely lime and lemon fruit entwined with a honied and toasty amalgam showing taut mineral elements and some complexing secondary detail. Medium-dry to taste, the palate is elegant and tautly held with thirst-quenching flavours of limes and lemonade and toasty, mineral elements. The freshness of the mouthfeel is enhanced by crisp, racy acidity and a very fine-textured, dry line. Subtle creamy and honied richness and toasty secondary development balances the acidity and phenolics and the wine carries to a long, sustained finish. This is an elegant, crisp, thirst-quenching medium-dry Riesling with lime, mineral and toasty flavours. Serve as an aperitif and with fine Asian fare over the next 4-5 years. Fruit from the two ‘Wiffen’ Riesling blocks cool-fermented in stainless-steel to 11.6% alc. and 14 g/L RS, TA 9.4 g/L and pH 2.82. 18.5+/20 May 2015 RRP $20.15 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Riesling 2012
  Riesling from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 08-Jun-2016

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Brilliant yellow colour with lemon-green hues, lighter on the rim. The bouquet is elegant and tightly concentrated with aromas of lime fruit entwined with piquant yellow florals and delicate herbal notes, revealing soft, complexing toasty elements with honey nuances. The aromatic grow in finesse and intensity with aeration. Medium-dry to taste and light-medium bodied, the flavours of lime and citrus fruits are entwined with yellow florals, toast and honey and show with real penetration and depth. The mouthfeel is crisp, bright and taut, with very fine textures from the fruit extract. Brisk acidity lends raciness and tension, and the wine leads to a mouthwatering, zesty finish of limes and toast. This is a crisp, bright and intensely flavoured medium-dry Riesling with lime fruit and complexing toasty and honeysuckle notes. Serve as an aperitif, with seafood and Pacific Rim fare over the next 5+ years. Fruit from two ‘Wiffen’ blocks, cool-fermented in stainless-steel to 10.9% alc., 20 g/L RS, TA 10.7 g/L and pH 2.7. 18.5+/20 Jun 2016 RRP $20.15 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Riesling 2013, Marlborough
  Riesling from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 07-Sep-2020

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, medium yellow with some depth and a lime hue, even colour throughout. The nose is expressive, complexing aromas of lime, mandarin, marmalade, melded with beeswax and subtle spice development underlay. Medium-bodied, off-dry to taste, rich flavours of citrus fruit and marmalade, enriched by beeswax, lanolin, cereals and subtle white pepper development. The palate is almost unctuous, soften acidity balanced with the sugar sweetness, lingers with mandarin-nuanced acidity on the finish. This is an off-dry Riesling with rich flavours of an amalgam of citrus, beeswax, cereals details development. Match with roasted pork and spring rolls with spiced sweet and sour sauce over the next 2 years. 11.5% alc. 17/20 pts Sept 2020 RRP $19.95
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Pinot Gris 2009
  Pinot Gris from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 13-Sep-2011

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Second crop from the ‘Wiffen' vineyard, fermented to 12.5% alc. and 12 g/L rs, 10% in seasoned French oak barriques. Bright, deep straw-yellow colour with some golden hues, this has a full, voluminous nose, the aromas of pears and ripe yellow stonefruits a little shy, but with some flinty, minerally interest. Off-dry to taste, this is full and rounded on palate, with restrained pear and peachy flavours. There is good weight, and an unctuous texture is enhanced by lowish acidity and a creaminess. This has a warmth and succulence, and the shy flavours should unfold over the next 2-3+ years. Match with antipasto and Mediterranean cuisine . 17.0+/20 Sep 2011 RRP $24.00 Light golden hues to the straw-yellow colour, the nose is soft, full and ripe with pear fruit along with a little flinty lees work showing. Off-dry to taste, the lees nuttiness and creamy texture adds to the weight and gentle succulence from the fruit. The flavours are a little shy at present, but should unfold over the next 2-3+ years. 12.5%alc., and 12 g/L rs.  Apr 2011  RRP $24.00 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Pinot Gris 2010
  Pinot Gris from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 27-Apr-2012

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Soft straw-yellow colour with the faintest hint of blush, pale on rim. This has a tightly bound, but concentrated bouquet of yellow stonefruits with flinty complexities, revealing notes of spices, honey and yellow florals. Off-dry, this has good weight and presence, showing luscious flavours of sweet, ripe stonefruits combined with lively and refreshing acidity. Layers of honey, spices, minerals and nuts unfold, adding an unctuous, creamy texture to the mouthfeel. Soft and harmonious, this has excellent tension and energy that carries through to a sustained, subtly nuanced finish. This is an appealing Pinot Gris that combines richness and near-unctuous textures with refreshing acidity. Match with Middle Eastern and Asian cuisine over the next 3-4+ years. Third crop fruit, stainless-steel fermented with 12% in old oak to 13.0% alc. and 18.0 g/L rs, the wine given light lees contact. 18.0-/20 Apr 2012 RRP $24.00 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Pinot Gris 2011
  Pinot Gris from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 14-Nov-2013

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright straw-yellow colour with pale golden hues and a hint of blush. This has a full, rich, ripe nose with an array of interwoven yellow stonefruit, honeysuckle and complex flinty, mineral aromas, the bouquet revealing subtle exotic florals and building in intensity in the glass. Medium-dry to taste, gently rich flavours of stonefruits enriched with honey form a concentrated palate that unfolds minerally layers. The flows flow smoothly along a fine line guided by a delicate textural thread with lacy acidity in support, providing good energy and freshness. The flavours blossom with lusciousness and carry through to a long, sustained and concentrated finish. This is a softy concentrated and complex layered, medium-dry Pinot Gris with excellent vibrancy and richness. Serve with Asian fare over the next 3-4+ years. Fermented in stainless-steel with 8% in seasoned oak to 13.7% alc. and 17 g/L RS. 19.0/20 Nov 2013 RRP $24.00 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Pinot Gris 2013
  Pinot Gris from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 22-Aug-2014

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, light straw-yellow colour with golden hues and a suggestion of blush, pale on rim. The nose is softly full with fresh and bright aromas of yellow stonefruits and exotic florals, along with nuances of honeysuckle intermingling with flint. The nose builds in depth, showing a minerally core. Off-dry to taste, the fruit flavours are still shy and tightly bound, with restrained stonefruit and honeysuckle notes lifted by some youthful fermentation esters. The mouthfeel has real vinous presence and weight, the palate flowing along a concentrated, near unctuous line. Fine-featured phenolics add to the structure and the wine has elegant power and drive leading to a fresh, zesty, dry and long lingering finish. This is a tightly bound off-dry Pinot Gris with excellent drive and line that grow in richness over the next 4+ years. Serve with most white meat dishes. Fruit given long hang time and fermented with 12% in seasoned oak to 13.7% alc. and 5.9 g/L RS, some of the barrel portions given batonnage and undergoing MLF. 18.5/20 Aug 2014 RRP $24.00 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Pinot Gris 2014
  Pinot Gris from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 21-Jan-2015

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Full, even, light straw-yellow colour with a suggestion of blush. The nose is fresh with aromatically lifted, but tightly focussed white stonefruit and exotic floral notes along with honey and spice nuances. Dryish to taste and medium-bodied, the palate is taut and crisp with pure white stonefruit and floral fruit flavours. Pears, honey and spices add subtle interest. The flavours are up-front and fruit-focussed. This has a soft-textured core and line, the wine flowing with good energy and drive, enlivened by fresh, lacy acidity. The wine carries to a light, lingering finish with gentle floral and aromatic fruit nuances. This is a fresh, crisp and racy, dryish Pinot Gris with pure, aromatic stonefruit and floral notes. Serve with Asian and Pacific Rim fare over the next 3+ years. Fruit from the ‘Wiffen’ vineyards, cool-fermented in stainless-steel to 13.2% alc. and 10.0 g/L RS, the wine aged on light lees. 17.5-/20 Jan 2015 RRP $24.00 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Pinot Gris 2015
  Pinot Gris from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 10-Jun-2016

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Light straw-yellow colour with slight green-gold hues and a suggestion of blush, pale edged. The nose is softly packed with aromas of yellow stonefruits entwined with gentle layers of honeysuckle and exotic florals, revealing savoury, nutty lees elements as the aromatics grow in volume and depth. Medium-dry to taste and medium-bodied, the palate features a good core of yellow stonefruits melded with yellow florals and subtle honeysuckle notes. Some nutty lees elements add interest. The flavours are gently rich and harmoniously presented with good concentration, and flow along a fine-textured phenolic line with soft underlying acidity providing energy. The wine carries to a softly packed, lingering finish of stonefruits and savoury honeysuckle. This is a softly concentrated, medium-dry Pinot Gris with balanced richness and textures. Serve with Asian and Middle Eastern fare over the next 3-4 years. Fruit from the ‘Wiffen’ vineyards, cool-fermented in stainless-steel to 13.8% alc. and 12 g/L RS, 10% aged in barrel for 8 months, as was the tank-aged portion. 18.0-/20 Jun 2016 RRP $24.00 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Pinot Gris 2017, Marlborough
  Pinot Gris from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 07-Sep-2020

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, straw-yellow with a light green hue, even colour throughout. The nose is densely packed, interwoven an array of tree fruit, lemon and spice. Off-dry to taste, medium-bodied, gently rich flavours of quince, pear and apple melded with honey and five-spice. The mouthfeel is oily, gentle-flowing with crisp fresh pear and apple; unveiled honey, quince paste rich notes as the wine aerated, subtle florals linger in the background. The flavours are gently rich and harmonious presented, flow along a fine-textured phenolic line with soft, underlying acidity provides freshness. This is a softly-concentrated off-dry Pinot Gris, with balanced richness and freshness. Match with Asian fare over the next 2-3 years. 12.5% alc. 17.5/20 pts Sept 2020 RRP $19.95
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Gewurztraminer 2009
  Gewurztraminer from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 17-Aug-2011

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Brilliant straw-yellow colour with a pale edge, this has a refined bouquet redolent of subtle exotic florals, apricots, wild honey, ginger and Turkish Delight. Medium-dry to slightly sweet to taste, the palate has rich and exotic floral and spice flavours on a refined, near unctuously textured, near oily and mouth-filling palate that has harmony as its highlight. Restrained in style without any blowsiness, this is fine-featured, with alcohol and acidity in poise. Excellent length. Fruit from Peter Rose's block, fermented to 13.4% alc. and 12 g/L rs. Match with Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine over the next 3-4 years. 18.5+/20 Aug 2011 RRP $24.00 Bright, light golden straw-yellow colour, and a full, dense, intense and rich bouquet of lychees and rose petals. The 13.4% alc. is noticeable, but not intrusive, and the wine tastes off-dry, with 12 g/L rs. It is the combination of tight construction and lack of blowsiness, along with super-fine unctuous textures that is remarkable here. This will develop and become richer, and more voluptuous over the next 3-4+ years.  Apr 2011  RRP $24.00 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Gewurztraminer 2010
  Gewurztraminer from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 09-Apr-2013

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Fruit from the ‘Rose’ vineyard, fermented with 12% in seasoned French oak barriques to 13.0% alc. and 14 g/L rs. Bright, pale straw-yellow colour with pale green tints, light on edge. This has an elegantly concentrated and restrained bouquet with an amalgam of rose-petal florals, subtle fresh herb and gingery spices. Medium-dry to taste, the flavours of rose-petals and honied elements are nuanced by some delicate herb nuances. The feature of the palate is the smooth and fine textured flow with a suggestion of oiliness and unctuousness which forms a vinous core enhanced by a little alcohol power. The acidity is soft and adds to the rounded mouthfeel. The flavours flow with good drive to a lingering finish which classically counterpoises delicate richness with varietal bitter hints. This is a classical floral medium-dry Gewurztraminer with very smooth textures and mouthfeel. Serve with Middle Eastern and Asian inspired cuisine over the next 3-4 years. 17.5+/20 Apr 2013 RRP $24.00 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates

• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Gewurztraminer 2011
  Gewurztraminer from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 22-Aug-2014

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Fruit from the ‘Wiffen’ vineyard and ‘Rose’ block in Spring Creek, fermented with 12% in seasoned oak to 13.2% alc. and 11 g/L RS. Brilliant straw-yellow with light lemon-gold hues, pale edged. The bouquet is elegant with good intensity and concentrated aromas of rose-petals infused with musk, revealing ginger elements in an amalgam with savoury hair oil and creaming soda elements. Medium-dry to taste, the palate features a moderately rich and lush core with a slippery flow. Flavours of rose-petals, root ginger, musk and creaming soda are complexed by subtle savoury secondary nuances. The wine possesses good underlying alcohol power and drive, balanced by lacy acidity which enlivens the fruitiness. The wine leads to a softly textural finish with a little characteristic varietal bitterness. This is an elegantly concentrated medium-dry Gewurztraminer with some richness and subtle secondary oily richness. Match with Middle Eastern and Asian cuisine over the next 3-4 years. 18.0/20 Aug 2014 RRP $24.00 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Gewurztraminer 2012
  Gewurztraminer from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 26-Jul-2018

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Full straw-yellow colour with light green-gold hues, lighter on the rim. The bouquet is softly full and broad with harmoniously presented aromas of savoury tropical fruits with notes of root-ginger, and nuances of exotic florals unfolding some earthy secondary development complexities. Medium-dry to taste and medium-full bodied, the palate has rich flavours of savoury tropical and exotic fruits along with Turkish Delight and root-ginger, entwined with savoury earthy and nutty complexing detail. The flavours form a rounded, near-unctuous core with moderate concentration, underlined by some alcoholic power. The wine carries with light phenolic-textures to a lingering finish of savoury tropical fruits. This is a mature medium-dry Gewurztraminer with a near-unctuous palate of savoury tropical fruit flavours on a palate with alcohol drive. Match with Asian and Middle Eastern fare over the next 2+ years. Fruit predominantly from the ‘Rose’ vineyard with ‘Wiffen’ estate fruit, fermented in stainless-steel with 9% in seasoned barrels to 13.2% alc. and 15 g/L RS, the wine aged on lees. 17.5/20 Jul 2018 RRP $24.00 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Gewurztraminer 2013, Marlborough
  Gewurztraminer from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 07-Sep-2020

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, medium yellow with some depth and a green hue, even colour throughout. The nose is gently full, well-packed with aromas of lime, lychee, mandarin peels, entwined with ginger, rose petals and cereal notes. Off-dry, medium-light bodied, there is a good concentration of fruit on the palate, lime, lychee and mandarin lingers with subtle honey, enriched by ginger, rose petals and cereal notes on the finish. The wine is smooth-flowing with good energy, balanced sweetness and acidity shine through with purity of fruit. Acidity is balanced, enlivened the palate with freshness and lingers to a clean and dry finish, along with subtle development of cereal nuances. This is an off-dry Gewurztraminer with clean, exotic fruit notes, ginger, rose petals and cereals complexing details, flows on a smooth line to a dry, refreshing finish. Match with chicken curry and Sichuan cuisine over the next 3 years. 13% alc. 18-/20 pts Sept 2020 RRP $24
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Chardonnay 2009
  Chardonnay from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 05-Aug-2011

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Mendoza and clone 15 from well-established vines, fully barrel-fermented to 13.6% alc., the wine aged 9 months in 28.4% new French oak barriques, with lees aging and partial MLF. Brilliant, light golden-straw colour with a pale edge, this has an intense nose of ripe citrus fruit with plenty of mealiness and nutty notes and distinctive toastiness, all in proportion and harmonious in interaction. A medium-full bodied wine, this is crisp and fresh with very intense citrus fruit intermingling with mealy, nutty flavours and an abundance of toasty oak. The flavours unfold in the glass and are mouthfilling, the richness and alcohol providing warmth and power, but there is plenty of crisp acidity for freshness and liveliness. The wine retains a degree of elegance by way of its balance, and a feature is the very long, sustained finish with citrus and oak nuances. Match with roasted and grilled seafood, poultry and pork dishes over the next 4-5+ years. 19.0/20 Aug 2011 RRP $24.55 Made from mainly Mendoza clone fermented to 13.6% alc., the wine spent 9 months in new and seasoned French oak barrels. Bright straw-yellow with light golden hues, this has a voluminous and intense bouquet of citrus fruit, mealy, nuttiness and spicy-sweet oak vanillins. On palate, waves of flavour unfold. Citrus fruits, mealiness, toasty oak, nuts and smoke fill the mouth, making this a rich and intense wine that is in full harmony. Simply a sensational, classy, flavoursome wine that will match the best pork and poultry dishes. Drink over the next 3-5 years. Apr 2011 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Chardonnay 2010
  Chardonnay from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 13-Sep-2011

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Brilliant straw-yellow colour with a pale edge, this has a full, soft matty nose of mealy citrus fruits, stonefruits and balanced nutty oak. There is depth and intensity. A medium-bodied wine,, the flavours are still tightly bound, with lifted citrus and mealy, nutty flavours. There is depth and proportion, and alcoholic power for the size. Fresh acidity underlines the palate with fine, soft textures, and the finish is long with a complex fruit and nutty oak amalgam. A little soft and undeveloped at present, this will become more defined and concentrated over the next 3-4+ years. Mendoza and clone 15 from two well-established blocks, 100% barrel-fermented to 13.5% alc, the wine aged 9 months in 32% new French oak barriques with lees aging and partial MLF. 17.5+/20 Sep 2011 RRP $24.55
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Chardonnay 2011
  Chardonnay from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 28-Sep-2012

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, pale straw-yellow colour with some green hues, lighter on rim. The nose is tight and somewhat reserved, building in intensity, revealing fresh citrus fruit aromas with oak nuttiness and spices, from the barrel-ferment. Medium-bodied, elegantly presented citrus fruit flavours combine with well-balanced notes of nutty, toasty oak and are underlined by crisp, refreshing acidity. This is sleek and flows with good line and fine, smooth textures, the flavours with drive to a very long crisp finish with citrus and toasty flavours. Tight and elegant, this citrussy, nutty, Chardonnay has good line and the potential to become richer over the next 4-5 years. Serve with seafood and creamy sauce dishes. Mendoza and clone 15 Chardonnay fruit from two well-established blocks barrel fermented to 14.2% alc., the wine aged 9 months in 27% new French oak barriques on lees, a small proportion undergoing MLF. 18.0/20 Sep 2012 RRP $24.55 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Chardonnay 2012
  Chardonnay from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 14-Nov-2013

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Mendoza and clone 15 fruit from two well-establish blocks barrel-fermented to 13.6% alc. and 6.4 g/L RS, the wine aged 9 months in 27% new French oak barriques, the wine undergoing batonnage, a small portion undergoing MLF. Brilliant lemon-straw yellow colour with slight green hues, pale on rim. The nose is very fine and tightly concentrated with a core of fresh citrus fruits and spicy, nutty oak, revealing cream and toasty detail and complexity. Medium-bodied, tightly concentrated flavours of citrus and stonefruits with nutty, toasty oak are complemented by subtle cream and flinty nuances. The palate has intensity and a driven core with crisp and racy acidity in support. The mouthfeel is one of vitality, liveliness and linearity that leads to a very long, lingering finish of citrus fruits and nuts. This is a fresh, lively and concentrated Chardonnay of elegance, showing citrus and oaky flavours. Serve with seafood, poultry and pork over the next 4-5 years. 18.5/20 Nov 2013 RRP $24.55 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Chardonnay 2013
  Chardonnay from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 30-Jun-2014

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright straw-yellow colour with slight green hues, pale on rim. The nose is softly full with aromas of white and yellow stonefruits with an attractively rich layering of ripe citrus fruits, nuts and creamy barrel-ferment notes that build in depth with aeration. Dry to taste, the fruit is softly rich, lush and gently mouthfilling with flavours of ripe yellow stonefruits, citrus fruits and nuts. The palate is rounded with soft, matty, grainy textures that provide a phenolic dryness, and balanced by barrel-ferment creaminess. The acidity is quite discreet and unobtrusive, and the wine flows smoothly to a very fine-textured, toasty and sweet-fruited finish. This is a softly rich and full Chardonnay with layers of citrussy fruit, cream and nutty flavours. Serve with roasted seafood, poultry and pork dishes over the next 4-5 years. Mendoza and clone 15 fruit, fully barrel-fermented to 13.5% alc. and 6.0 g/L RS, the wine aged 9 months in 27% new French oak barrels, the wine undergoing batonnage and some MLF. 18.5+/20 Jul 2014 RRP $24.55 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Chardonnay 2014
  Chardonnay from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 27-May-2015

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, light straw-yellow colour with slight green hues, pale on rim. The nose is softly full and restrained in expression with a harmoniously interwoven core of white and yellow stonefruits, citrus fruits, nuts and creamy barrel-ferment elements. Complexing white floral, lemon curd and oak vanillin nuances emerge with aeration. Medium-bodied, the flavours of stonefruits show with a delicate richness, enhancing the subtle unctuous and smooth-flowing textures and line. Citrus fruit, nuts, creamy oak and a little MLF unfold in the glass. A finely textured linear thread and core carries the wine with good lacy acid poise to a long, lingering, elegant finish. This is a very youthful, elegant Chardonnay with subtle richness and smooth textures. It has the potential to develop greater levels of interest with a degree of finesse over the next 4-5+ years. Serve with seafood and most white meat dishes. Mendoza and clone 15 fruit from mature vines fully barrel-fermented to 13.3% alc. and 3 g/L RS, the wine aged 9 months in 25% new French oak, on lees with a small portion undergoing MLF. 18.0-/20 May 2015 RRP $24.55 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Chardonnay 2015
  Chardonnay from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 28-Jul-2017

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, light golden-yellow colour with some depth, paler on the rim. The nose is fresh with softly packed and concentrated aromas of white stonefruits and citrus fruits alongside mealy, and nutty lees and oak notes, with subtle, savoury, creamy barrel-ferment elements. The aromatics shoe detail and complexing interest. Medium-full bodied, the palate has a vibrant and concentrated core with layers of stonefruit and mealy flavours, entwined with nutty lees and oak detail. The palate has good presence and depth, with balanced, integrated acidity. The flavours flow along a very fine-textured line, leading to an elegant, long, lingering finish. This is a vibrant and well-integrated and concentrated Chardonnay with complex layers of detail and elegant finish. Match with poultry and pork over the next 4-5 years. Mendoza and clone 15 fruit from two sites in the ‘Charles Wiffen’ vineyards, Southern Valleys, fully barrel-fermented to 13.8% alc., the wine aged 9 months in 24% new French oak barriques, undergoing batonnage with a small MLF converted component. 18.5-/20 Jul 2017 RRP $24.55 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Chardonnay 2016
  Chardonnay from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 17-Oct-2018

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, even, light lemon-gold colour with some depth, paler on the edge. The nose is elegantly proportioned with softly concentrated and packed aromas with layers of yellow stonefruits and citrus fruits harmoniously melded with subtle, fragrant nutty oak along with mealy and toasty complexities. This has a completeness to the expression. Medium-full bodied, the palate has a taut and concentrated heart with intensely packed, but stylishly presented, layered flavours of white and yellow stonefruits, citrus fruit, creamy barrel-ferment and nutty oak all interwoven and harmoniously balanced. The palate flows smoothly and seamlessly with some underlying power and fine, lacy acidity, leading to an elegant, sustained finish. This is a beautifully harmonious and integrated Chardonnay with stonefruit, citrus fruit, creamy and nutty oak and mealy detail, the wine quite complete in itself. Serve with grilled or roasted poultry or pork dishes over the next 4 years. Fruit from the Wiffen ‘Omaka’ block, fully barrel-fermented to 13.7% alc., the wine aged 9 months in 20% new French oak barriques, undergoing batonnage and full MLF. 18.5+/20 Oct 2018 RRP $24.55 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Chardonnay 2018, Marlborough
  Chardonnay from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 07-Sep-2020

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, straw-yellow with some depth, faintly lighter on edge. This is elegantly presented, gently penetrating aromas of stonefruit, melded with almond, nougat and subtle vanillin. Medium-bodied, aromas of lemons, apricots have a good core, entwined with bitter almonds, cashews and a touch of vanilla cream. The wine flows smoothly and seamlessly with lacy, integrated acidity, carries interwoven nutty oak elements and toasty complexity, leading an elegant linear finish. Lightly creamy palate and a light phenolic fine texture have broadened the palate dimension, rounding to complete expression. This is a harmonious Chardonnay with flavours of stonefruit, vanilla, nutty, creamy details. Match with grilled game fish, salt-baked chicken over the next 3 years. 13% alc. 18.5/20 pts Sept 2020 RRP $25
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Pinot Rosé 2013
  Rose from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 29-Aug-2013

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, moderately deep, purple-pink colour, youthful in appearance. This has a voluminous and deeply concentrated bouquet of strawberry and raspberry fruits lifted by confectionary notes and fermentation esters. Off-dry to taste, lively, lush and juicy flavours of raspberries, red florals and red confectionary fill the mouth with richness and depth. A subtle textured line supports the palate flow, with refreshing and mouthwatering acidity providing drive. The fruit brightness is the feature and provides a full, rounded and smooth mouthfeel that is carried to a long, flavoursome dry finish. This is a full, bold and juicy rose with bright, aromatic, raspberry fruit flavours and a dry finish. Serve as an aperitif and in al fresco dining occasions over the next 2 years. Clone 115 Pinot Noir saignéed and stainless-steel fermented to 13.3% alc. and 4.5 g/L RS. 18.0/20 Aug 2013 RRP $21.35 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Pinot Rosé 2015
  Rose from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 20-Dec-2015

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, light purple-hued pink colour with some depth, lighter on rim, and youthful in appearance. The nose is very fresh and bright with pure and pretty aromas of red cherry, strawberry and raspberry and cream, unveiling a hint of raspberry confectionary. Red florals and nuances of passionfruit and blackcurrant leaf add lift and freshness. Dry to taste and medium-bodied, the fruit flavours of cherries and raspberries show with richness and a degree of sweetness. Layers of herbs, passionfruit and leaf lend subtle refreshing detail. The palate has a lush, slippery flow with a positive core and smooth textures, and the acid liveliness adds energy and tension as the wine flows to a long, lingering finish of red florals and raspberries and cream. This is a refreshing dry rosé with smooth, rich, raspberry and cream fruit and smooth, slippery flow, with some passionfruit and leaf interest. Serve as an aperitif, with tapas, antipasto and Asian fare over the next 2 years. Clone 10/5 Pinot Noir fruit from Chaytors Road and older Dijon clone fruit from Rapaura, given 48 hours skin contact and cool-fermented in stainless-steel to 12.5% alc. and 4.5 g/L RS. 18.0+/20 Dec 2015 RRP $21.35 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Pinot Rosé 2016
  Rose from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 22-Feb-2017

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, light, cherry-pink colour with some depth, paler on the rim with slight purple hues. This has a fresh, elegantly proportioned nose with bright and fragrant raspberry and cherry fruit entwined with red florals, along with subtle notes of confectionary and suggestions of fermentation esters. The aromatics grow in intensity and penetration with aeration. Dryish to taste and medium-bodied, the palate is elegantly concentrated with a core of raspberry, cherry and strawberryish fruit lifted by red florals and notes of confectionary. The palate balances juiciness with refreshing acidity lending a thirst-quenching mouthfeel, and the wine flows along a fine-textured line, carrying to a long, lingering, aromatic finish of red berry fruits and nuances of confectionary. This is a juicy, refreshing, aromatic, dryish rosé with raspberry, cherry and strawberry fruit. Serve as an aperitif, with tapas and dim sum over the next 2 years. Estate grown fruit for the rosé style, 93% Pinot Noir, given 12 hours skin contact and tank-fermented, the wine blended with 7% Pinot Gris. This is 12.5% alc. and 4 g/L RS. 17.5+/20 Feb 2017 RRP $21.35 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Pinot Rosé 2017
  Rose from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 26-Jul-2018

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Moderately deep, light cerise-pink colour, paler on edge with some purple tints. The nose is elegantly proportioned with a fresh, firm core of mouthwatering strawberry and raspberry fruit, along with pomegranate and quince notes unfolding nuances of herbs and a suggestion of minerals. Dry to taste and medium-bodied, the palate has a firm and taut heart with fresh flavours of raspberries and cream along with notes of pomegranate and quince, unfolding some herbal nuances. The mouthfeel is brisk with thirst-quenching acidity, and the wine flows along a fine-textured, mouthwatering line, leading to a fresh, brisk finish of red berry fruits. This is a taut and refreshingly firm, dry rosé with clean strawberry and raspberry flavours with herb notes on a mouthwatering palate. Serve as an aperitif and with antipasto over the next 2 years. 100% Pinot Noir fruit from the ‘Lawson’s Dry Hills’ vineyards, given 8 hours on skins and cool-fermented in stainless-steel to 12.0% alc. and 4.5 g/L RS. 17.0/20 Jul 2018 RRP $21.35 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Pinot Rosé 2018
  Rose from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 17-Oct-2018

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, pale cerise-pink colour with some depth, lighter on the rim. The nose is fresh and firm with elegantly concentrated aromas of redcurrants and red florals with subtle thirst-quenching herbal elements, unfolding cranberry notes. Dry to taste and medium-bodied, the palate has moderately concentrated fruity core showing redcurrants, cherries and herbal notes, revealing cranberry and floral elements. The mouthfeel is refreshing and mouthwatering with crisp acidity, and the wine flows with good linearity, leading to a lingering finish that unfolds a red floral and herb amalgam. This is a moderately concentrated, refreshing and thirst-quenching dry rosé with redcurrant, red cherry and cranberry fruit with herb and floral detail and good linearity. Match with antipasto, tapas, and Mediterranean fare over the next 2 years. Pinot Noir fruit from the ‘Flynn’ vineyard off Rapaura Road, given 8 hours skin contact and pressed to tank for fermentation to 12.0% alc. and 4.5 g/L RS. 17.5/20 Oct 2018 RRP $21.35 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2015
  Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 04-Feb-2016

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, very light straw colour, near colourless on the rim. The nose is soft and finely expressed with gently concentrated aromas of gooseberry fruit intermingling with herbs, green capsicums, white florals and mouthwatering mineral nuances. Dry to taste and light-medium bodied, the palate is very tightly bound and youthfully slender in proportion, showing flavours of gooseberries, white florals, herbs and limes. This has a taut, concentrated and focussed core, the wine flowing with precision along a thirst-quenching, fine phenolic, dry-textured line. The acidity is refined and integrated, lending tension as the palate carries to a tight, chalky, minerally finish. This is a youthfully taut and elegant, mouthwateringly dry Sauvignon Blanc with gooseberry and minerally flavours. Serve as an aperitif and with seafood over the next 2+ years. Fruit from the ‘Flipper Block’, a single vineyard wine, fermented in stainless-steel with 12% in oak to 13.0% alc. and <1 g/L RS, TA 7.9 g/L and pH 3.02. 17.5/20 Feb 2016 RRP $21.35 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Sauvignon Blanc 2018, Marlborough
  Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 07-Sep-2020

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, light straw yellow, slightly lighter on the rim. The nose is upfront and fresh, well-packed with vibrant nuances of gooseberries, limes and capsicums, underlying fine aromatic-minerals. Light-bodied, fresh and juicy with tropical fruit, gooseberries and limes, subtle florals unfolds, crunchy minerals flow to a sustained finish. The mouthfeel is vibrant with thirst-quenching acidity, smooth-flows with good energy on a mineral nuanced light-phenolic line. The fruit is generous and bright, with a concentrated core; acidity is refined and integrated, lending a focused acid tension. This is a bright, thirst-quenching Sauvignon Blanc with flavours of gooseberries, limes and capsicum on a fine-textured mineral line. Match with salt and pepper calamari and mussels over the next 2-3 years. 13% alc. 18.5/20 pts Sept 2020 RRP $19.95
• Charles Wiffen ‘Reserve’ Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2009
  Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 13-Sep-2011

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright pale straw-yellow colour with pale green hues. This has an elegant and restrained nose of capsicums, gooseberries and herbs along with a delicate oak spiciness. Dry to taste, this has a full, weighty, vinous body and softly dense textures, matched by fresh acidity. The flavours are light, showing nectarines, herbs and minerals, with nuances of spice and savoury fruits emerging with air time. Fine, fresh acidity sustains the finish. Fruit from the ‘Wiffen' vineyard fermented to 12.9% alc. and dryness, 16% in old French barriques. A stylish, restrained wine with intricacies to match seafood, poultry and pork over the next 3-4 years. 17.0+/20 RRP $24.55 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Merlot 2008
  Merlot from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 05-Aug-2011

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, deep, purple hued ruby-red in colour, with a full, well-ripened plummy, earthy, dried herb and tobacco-tinged bouquet. Fullish bodied at 13.5% alc, there is a firmness of structure with fine-grained tannin extraction, which is balanced by deep dark plum flavours. The Marlborough provenance may be seen in the slightly elevated levels of acidity, which provides tension and length. Match with roasted lamb, beef and venison over the next 4-6 years. Apr 2011 RRP$25.35 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Merlot 2009
  Merlot from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 17-Aug-2011

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Deepish ruby-red with a dark coloured heart and a light garnet edge, this has an elegant and concentrated nose of dark plums with black and red currants with aromas of mint, green olives and oak spices. Full-bodied, this has a rich and concentrated core of sweet dark plums with blackcurrant leaf and mint flavours showing. The fruit is supported by good, grainy tannin grip and bright acidity carrying through to a finish with length and nuances of dark berry and herbs. A low cropping vintage, the fruit from the ‘Wiffen' vineyard fermented to 13.7% alc., the wine aged 9 months in 32% new French barriques. A wine with cooler spectrum flavours with richness and the structure to match roasted lamb and beef courses over the next 5-6+ years. 17.5-/20 Aug 2011 RRP $25.35
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Merlot 2010
  Merlot from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 07-Jun-2012

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Ruby-red colour with some depth, lighter garnet hues on edge. This has a fresh, elegant and aromatic bouquet of redcurrant fruit, fresh red plums and florals, with notes of herbs emerging in glass. Medium-bodied, restrained flavours of redcurrants and fresh herbs feature with succulence and juiciness. This is well-proportioned with good depth and moderate concentration, balanced by fine, supple tannins and good acid brightness. The acidity carries light currant and red capsicum notes on the finish. This is an elegant and fine-featured, cooler spectrum Merlot with attractive aromatics. Match with roasted lamb over the next 4-5 years. Hand-picked fruit fermented to 13.5% alc., the wine hand-plunged and aged 9 months in 35% new French oak barriques. 16.5+/20 Jun 2012 RRP $25.35 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Merlot 2012
  Merlot from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 14-Nov-2013

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Moderately deep, dark ruby-red colour with light purple hues, youthful in appearance. The bouquet is firmly packed with finely expressed aromas of black plums and blackcurrants, minerals and cassis, along with a little underlying fragrant leafiness. Medium-bodied and elegantly proportioned, the palate features a soft, well-concentrated core of blackcurrant and black plummy fruit, intermixed with subtle dried herbs, minerals and blackcurrant leafiness. The mouthfeel is smooth flowing with fine-grained tannins in support and balanced by fresh, lacy acidity, resulting in balance and harmony. A linear drive leads to a fine, firm and lingering finish. This is an elegant, concentrated and balanced Merlot with blackcurrant, black plum and leafy flavours in the cooler spectrum. It should develop well over the next 4-5 years. Serve with herb-marinated pork, lamb and beef dishes. Hand-picked fruit from vines in 1998, fermented to 12.7% alc., the wine aged 9 months in 26% new French oak barriques. 17.5/20 Nov 2013 RRP $25.35 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Merlot 2013
  Merlot from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 14-Nov-2014

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Full, dark, deep ruby-red colour with youthful purple hues. The nose is fresh with bold and brash aromas of redcurrants and red plums with herb and blackcurrant leaf elements along with creamy barrel notes. Medium-bodied, elegantly concentrated flavours of redcurrant and fresh red plum fruit are finely presented on the palate. The red fruits are infused with herb and leafy notes and a suggestion of stalk. The wine flows smoothly, the fruit supported by fine-grained tannins and a lacy acid line which carries the flavours to an elegant and refined finish. Fulsome on bouquet, this elegant and fine-textured Merlot has fresh redcurrant, plum and leafy flavours. Serve with roast lamb and beef, or with semi hard cheeses over the next 5-6 years. Hand-picked fruit from vines planted in 1998, given a 3 day cold soak and fermented to 12.9% alc., the wine aged 9 months in 26% new French oak barriques. 17.5-/20 Nov 2014 RRP $25.35 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Merlot 2015
  Merlot from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 04-Feb-2016

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Even, dark ruby-red colour with youthful purple hues. This has a light and tightly bound nose with aromas of black berried and curranty fruit melded with a soft and gentle amalgam of black plums, herbs and oak toast. Light-medium bodied and elegantly presented, the palate features a light core of black and red curranty fruit with nuances of plums, herbs and toasty oak. The mouthfeel has modest, fine-grained tannin extraction and fresh acid cut and line providing brightness and vitality. The wine carries to a light, lingering, fine-textured finish of currants and herbs. This is a fresh, light fruited and bodied Merlot with curranty, plum and herb flavours and fine, light grip. Match with beef and lamb dishes and Mediterranean fare over the next 4 years. Hand-picked fruit, fermented to 12.7% alc., the wine aged 7-8 months in 27% new oak. 16.5/20 Feb 2016 RRP $25.35 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Merlot 2016, Marlborough
  Merlot from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 07-Sep-2020

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Deep, ruby-red with a black hue, slightly lighter on the rim. The nose is gently full with good intensity, aromas of plums, dried blackcurrants, melded with dried herbs, leather, liquorice and warm spices. Medium-full bodied, an amalgam of dark berries, plums, dried currants, interwoven dried herbs, leather, dark chocolate toned tannin. The palate is refined with juicy red fruit and lively acid balance, lacy and lifting. Developed flavours of leather, liquorice, dried herbs, complexing flavours, added interest. Tannin extraction has a good grip and a hint of smokiness lingers to a moderately long finish. Match with slow-cooked beef stew and beef steaks over the next 2-3 years. 13% alc. 18/20 pts Sept 2020 RRP $25
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Pinot Noir 2009
  Pinot Noir from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 05-Aug-2011

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Mainly clone 10/5 with 6% 667, sixth crop off the vines, fermented 14.0% alc., the wine aged 9 months in 27% new French oak barriques. Deepish ruby-red colour with some purply-garnet hues on edge. This is intensely packed on bouquet with ripe, dark raspberry fruit aromas along with dark plum and floral notes. The noose has clarity of expression and is echoed on the palate. Bright and concentrated raspberry liqueur, plum and liquorice notes show, the flavours quite primary with juiciness. The wine is still tight and concentrated, with fine tannin grip and a firmness of structure providing line and length. Oaking is subtle and fine. The acidity is ample and adds to the fruit lusciousness, balancing the extraction, enabling a long finish. Match with duck, pork and lamb over the next 5-6+ years. 18.5/20 Aug 2011 RRP $28.20 Bright ruby-red colour, with pale purple hues, youthful in appearance, this has ripe dark berry and plum aromas along with dark cherry liqueur and violet notes. A rich, medium bodied wine, the fruit is luscious and lively, bright and juicy, yet with very good concentration and depth. Fine tannin grip and some oak toastiness bring interest and balance. 14.0% alc, this was aged 9 months in French oak. Apr 2011 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Pinot Noir 2010
  Pinot Noir from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 28-Sep-2012

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Clones 10/5, 115 and 667 from the ‘Charles Wiffen' vineyards in the lower Wairau and Southern Valley region, hand-picked and fermented to 13.3% alc., the wine aged 9 months in 26% new French oak barriques. Ruby-red colour with good depth, some lighter garnet hues on edge showing with a little bricking. This has a soft, light bouquet of strawberry and red cherry fruits revealing savoury secondary nuances of dried herbs, brown earthy spices and mushrooms. Medium-bodied, savoury dark red berry fruit flavours form a good core supported by fine-grained, moderately firm tannins. Savoury game and mushroom elements emerge in the glass, but the wine is lively with good energy from the acidity. The flavours carry through to a sustained, finish with acidity and secondary flavour interest. This medium-bodied Pinot Noir beginning to show some development characters, but has the structure and freshness to keep 4-5+ years. Match with mushroom-influenced dishes. 17.5-/20 Sep 2012 RRP $28.20 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Pinot Noir 2011
  Pinot Noir from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 15-Oct-2014

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Even ruby-red colour, a little lighter on rim. The bouquet is light and elegant with a finely held nose of red cherry and berry fruits in a harmonious amalgam with herbs, nuts and savoury, spicy oak detail that grows in the glass. Medium-bodied, the red cherry fruit is initially restrained, but unfolds to show juiciness with savoury, nutty and herbal notes and oak spicing. The tannins are fine-grained and supple, and the mouthfeel fresh and lively from lacy and integrated acidity. This is well-proportioned and flows with good energy to a refreshing and attractively lifted floral finish that lingers. This is an elegant, juicy and fresh red cherry-flavoured Pinot Noir to match with antipasto, salmon, tuna, and poultry dishes over the next 4+ years. Hand-picked fruit from the ‘Wiffen’ blocks, clones 10/5, 667 and 115, fully destemmed, given a cold soak and fermented to 13.6% alc., the wine aged 9 months in 30% new French oak barriques. 17.5/20 Oct 2014 RRP $28.20 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Pinot Noir 2012
  Pinot Noir from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 09-Nov-2015

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Moderately dark, even ruby-red, a little lighter on the rim. This has a soft, restrained and gently voluminous bouquet with seamlessly interwoven aromas of soft red berry fruits, savoury herbs, hints of earth and game, and nutty, cedary oak. The aromatics are smooth layered with detail. Medium-full bodied, the palate and mouthfeel is soft and smooth, with lovely integration and layers of savoury red berry fruits, red florals, dried herbs and earthy suggestions. This is just beginning to show some secondary development and interest. The wine follows an elegant line and smooth-flowing core with supple, fine-grained tannins and integrated acidity in support. The palate leads to a sweet and savoury long and sustained, crisp finish of red fruits, herbs and cedar. This is a smooth and integrated Pinot Noir with seamless savoury flavours of red fruits, herbs, earth and cedar. Serve with mushroom dishes, and wild duck or pork over the next 4-5 years. A blend of 64% 10/5, 23% 667 and 13% Abel clone, hand-picked destemmed, given a cold soak and fermented to 13.7% alc., the wine aged approx. 9 months in 25.4% new French oak barriques. 17.5/20 Nov 2015 RRP $28.20 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Pinot Noir 2013
  Pinot Noir from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 14-Dec-2017

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Moderately dark, deep ruby-red colour with a lighter edge and a touch of garnet. The nose is elegant with bright and lively aromas of savoury dark-red cherry and berry fruit entwined with a soft layering of dried herbs, a little undergrowth, nutty oak and red florals. The aromatics form a tight, finely concentrated core. Medium-bodied. the palate has gently rich and concentrated, vibrant and juicy fruit flavours of savoury red cherry and berry fruit melded with a soft layer of dried herbs, game and undergrowth. The fruit is underlined by light, supple tannin extraction with fine, lacy acid drive. The favours builds in depth and linearity, and carry to a light, lingering finish of savoury red fruits and florals. This is an elegantly concentrated, supple Pinot Noir with savoury red fruits, notes of herbs and undergrowth, the wine beginning to develop secondary interest. Match with mushroom dishes and game bird over the next 4 years. Clone 10/5 and 667 fruit from the ’Charles Wiffen’ vineyards, destemmed and fermented to 13.8% alc., the wine aged 9 months in 28% new French oak. 17.5/20 Dec 2017 RRP $28.20 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Charles Wiffen ‘Reserve’ Marlborough Pinot Noir 2007
  Pinot Noir from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 13-Sep-2011

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Moderately deep ruby-red with garnet hues and a light edge to the colour. This has a concentrated and intense nose of black berry and black cherry fruits along with some dried herbal secondary savoury aromas spiced by cedary oak. A concentrated wine with intense flavours of ripe, dark red berry fruits with savoury, earthy truffle nuances appearing, the tannin extraction and weight provides a firm backbone for the palate. The textures are quite fine, and fresh acidity provides some good tension and liveliness. Long spicy oak and earthy flavours mark the finish. Match with mushroom and game dishes over the next 4-5+ years. 14.3% alc., the wine was aged 9 months in 100% new French oak barriques. 18.0+/20 Sep 2011 RRP $35.35 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Charles Wiffen ‘Reserve’ Marlborough Pinot Noir 2008
  Pinot Noir from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 29-Feb-2012

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  41% clone 10/5, 32% 115, 21% 667 and 6% 777. Fifth crop fruit from the ‘Charles Wiffen' vineyards in the Southern Valleys, hand-picked and fermented to 13.4% alc., the wine was aged in French oak barrels for 9 months. Moderately deep ruby-red colour with garnet and brick hues on edge. This has a tight, elegant bouquet of savoury red berry and cherry aromas along with notes of dried herbs, forest-floor and oak cedar forming a complex amalgam. Medium-full bodied, this has a layered, secondary flavour profile with red berry fruits, dried herbs, cedar, Middle Eastern spices and toast. The flavours on mid-palate are rich and enlivened by bright acidity and underlined by fine, near velvet-like tannins which lead to a long, dry, direct finish. Showing complexing secondary development, this has fine textures and oak spices that will make it a match with pork and lamb dishes over the next 3-4+ years. 17.5/20 Feb 2012 RRP $35.00 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Late Harvest Riesling 2009
  Sweet Wine from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 13-Sep-2011

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Made by Rebecca Wiffen. Fruit from the ‘North' block of the ‘Wiffen' vineyard cool-fermented to 10.7% alc., with 154 g/L rs. Bright, light golden straw-yellow colour, this has a full and concentrated nose of honey, marmalade, citrus fruits with botrytis-like talc and exotic florals providing an lift to the aromatics. Very rich and lusciously sweet, this has a tight core and elegance to the proportions. Fine floral fruit, honey and marmalade show with botrytis-like flavours, the palate is smooth in texture, near unctuous and soft in acidity. Still fresh and with more complexity to develop, layers of flavours will unfold over the next 4-5+ years. Match with fruit desserts and even crème caramel, as well as blue cheeses. (375 ml) 19.0-/20 Sep 2011 RRP $35.35 Made from late-picked fruit showing some noble botrytis, fermented to 10.7% alc. and around 155 g/L rs. Light golden straw-yellow in colour, this has a fulsome, decadent nose of honey, marmalade, and apricots with beautiful exotic floral notes. Very rich and lusciously sweet on palate, the honied fruit, marmalade and botrytis flavours are very well integrated and harmonious. A little more acidity to give some more cut to the softness of texture would make this close to perfect. (375 ml) Apr 2011 RRP $35.35 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Charles Wiffen Marlborough Late Harvest Riesling 2015
  Sweet Wine from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 20-Mar-2016

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, light golden-yellow colour with some depth. The nose is rich and full with aromas of ripe citrus fruit interwoven with layers of tropical fruits, musky grapes and raisins with nutty and honied notes. This has depth and intensity. Very sweet to taste and light-medium bodied, the flavours are up-front and well-proportioned, showing ripe apricots, citrus and tropical fruits, melded with honey, musk and raisin notes. The mouthfeel is rounded and has a degree of unctuousness, with soft acidity providing gentle energy. The wine follows a subtly-textured line which leads to a soft, lingering finish of ripe citrus fruit, honey and raisins with delicate phenolics and grip. This is a softly rich Late Harvest Riesling with citrus, apricot, honey and raisiny flavours. Match with fruit and baked desserts over the next 4+ years. Late-picked Riesling fruit with a little botrytis from the Wiffen ‘North Block’, fermented in stainless-steel to 12.5% alc. and 160 g/L RS, TA 8.03 g/L and pH 3.41, the wine aged 7 months on lees. (375 ml) 17.5+/20 Mar 2016 RRP $35.35 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Hopscotch Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2014
  Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 21-Jan-2015

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, very pale straw colour with slight green hues, near colourless on rim. The nose is fresh with finely concentrated and intense, cutting aromas of white floral and gooseberry fruit. The aromas are pure and fruit focussed with subtle herb and mouthwatering minerally elements unfolding. Dry to taste and medium-bodied, this is racy and refreshingly zesty with flavours of gooseberries, limes and herbs, revealing some passionfruit and mineral elements through mid-palate. The wine follows a zesty, fine-textured core and line with plenty of acid energy, leading to a juicy, vibrant and mouthwatering finish. This is a crisp, racy and mouthwatering Sauvignon Blanc with gooseberry and white floral flavours. Serve as an aperitif, or with seafood, poultry and pasta with creamy sauces over the next 2 years. Fruit from the Southern Valleys cool-fermented in stainless-steel to 13.2% alc. and dryness, the wine aged on lees. 17.5/20 Jan 2015 RRP $17.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Hopscotch Marlborough Pinot Noir 2010
  Pinot Noir from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 02-Oct-2014

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Moderately deep, dark garnet-red colour with some brick hues on rim. The bouquet is full and rich with softly concentrated secondary aromas of savoury and spicy red berry fruits, earth, dried herbs, undergrowth and oak cedar. The nose is densely packed and lifted by a little volatility. Medium-bodied, the palate is lively with juicy, savoury red fruit, dried herb and mushroom flavours. The secondary complexities unfold in the glass, providing layers of interest. The mouthfeel is lively and full of acid vitality and the wine is supported by fine-grained tannins in the background. Well-balanced, the wine shows good proportion and length, finishing with brisk, savoury red fruit and earthy nuances. This is a lively, juicy, savoury-flavoured Pinot Noir with secondary interest. Match with wild duck and pork, and mushroom influenced dishes over the next 3-4 years. Clones 10/5, 115 and 667 from the lower Wairau and Southern Valley region, hand-picked and fermented to 13.5% alc., the wine aged 9 months in 26% new French oak barriques. 17.5-/20 Oct 2014 RRP $25.95
• Hopscotch Marlborough Pinot Noir 2011
  Pinot Noir from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 16-Jun-2016

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Moderately deep garnet red colour, lighter on the rim with a little bricking. The bouquet is elegant and slender in presentation with light, harmonious aromas of strawberries and cherries with gentle nuances of fresh and dried herbs, red florals and subtle oak spices. Medium-bodied, the fruit is up-front, light and straightforward, showing strawberries and cherries entwined with fresh and dried herbs and oak cedar. The palate is soft and supple with modest tannin extraction, and fresh, lacy acidity lends a degree of drive and energy. The wine leads to a light, slender finish of strawberries, herbs and florals. This is a light, up-front Pinot Noir with strawberry, cherry and herb flavours and a supple, but fresh mouthfeel. Match with tapas, antipasto and poultry dishes over the next 2-3 years. Hand-picked fruit from the ‘Wiffen’ blocks, clones 10/5, 667 and 115, fully destemmed, given a cold soak and fermented to 13.6% alc., the wine aged 9 months in 30% new French oak barriques. 16.5/20 Jun 2016 RRP $25.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Hopscotch Marlborough Pinot Noir 2012
  Pinot Noir from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 07-Dec-2016

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Even, dark ruby-red colour, a little lighter on the rim with a suggestion of garnet. This has a finely concentrated bouquet with well-packed aromas of dark-red berry fruits entwined with subtle nuances of fresh and dried herbs, and some nutty, spicy oak, savoury red florals and the beginnings of secondary detail. Medium-full bodied, the palate possesses a concentrated core of rich and moderately luscious, savoury dark-red berry fruits melded with a layering of fresh and dried herbs. Some secondary undergrowth elements emerge to add interest. The fruit and mouthfeel have vitality and lacy acidity adds liveliness. The wine flows along a gently extracted line and the structure is supple and balanced. The wine carries to a sustained, juicy and refreshing finish. This is a finely concentrated, juicy dark-red fruited Pinot Noir with some savoury secondary interest developing, on a supple, lively palate. Match with wild duck and pork dishes over the next 4+ years. Hand-picked fruit from the ‘Wiffen’ vineyards, fully destemmed and fermented to 13.5% alc., the wine aged 9 months in 30% new French oak. 17.5+/20 Dec 2016 RRP $25.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates