The Ohau region in the Horowhenua is home to Wellington’s closest wine growing district. The area was identified by viticulturist Kate Gibbs as being suitable for grapegrowing, with soils similar to Marlborough and a climate akin to that of Nelson. On the basis of this, a group of investors set up Ohau Wines, the first release vintage of 2009 Pinot Gris winning a gold medal and trophy at the Bragato Wine Show, and the Sauvignon Blanc taking silver. Ohau Wines has grown considerably, doubling its initial 20 ha of plantings to 40 ha, and the establishment of a cellar door. The vineyards are planted approx. 70% to Sauvignon Blanc and 20% Pinot Gris, with the remainder to Pinot Noir. There are several tiers with a ‘Single Vineyard’ range at top to the premium ‘Ohau Gravels’ label, with ‘Woven Stone’ as the secondary brand. Donna Riley heads the operation and Jane Cooper is the winemaker, producing all the wines to date. Here, I review the new release Ohau Gravels Pinot Gris 2017. www.ohauwines.co.nz
Copyright © 2022 Raymond Chan Wine Reviews.
Operates under Candice Wine Chat.
All rights reserved.
Design and Hosting by Queenstown IT