Nautilus Estate is one of the most consistent producers in Marlborough, making classical regional wines with finesse and subtle complexities and textures since 1985. Led by Clive Jones, the Nautilus team with Mike Collins as viticulturist and Brett Bermingham as assistant winemaker make benchmark Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, the region’s most important varieties. The standard is equally high with the full range from outstanding methode traditionnelle, Pinot Gris and Chardonnay, to the rarer Gruner Veltliner and Albarino bottlings. The secondary brands ‘Opawa’ and ‘Twin Islands’ have seen a rise in quality and consistency as has the premium label, and across the board, one could not ask for a more steadfast portfolio.
Clive Jones reports that 2017 will be regarded as one of the more challenging vintages in Marlborough in recent times. However the high viticultural standards attained by Mike Collins provided fruit in premium condition. Key to the retention of quality was the ability to harvest at optimum times, as well as having the winery capacity to handle extremes of intake. With the benefit of nearly a year down the track, Clive and his team are very happy with the results with all their varieties, and already a number of wines have attained top show awards confirming their thoughts. Here, I review the 2017 Opawa and Nautilus Estate Pinot Gris, plus the 2017 Nautilus Estate Chardonnay. www.opawawine.comwww.nautilusestate.com
