Spade Oak and Heart of Gold – Archive

FEATURED WINES IN THIS REVIEW

• Spade Oak Gisborne Methode Traditionnelle Blanc de Blancs 2009
  Sparkling Wine from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 16-Jul-2012

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  100% Chardonnay from the ‘Spade Oak' vineyard, fermented in seasoned French oak with 100% MLF to 12.5% alc. The wine has 10.0 g/L dosage and spend 24 months on lees, being disgorged 7 May 2012. Bright, light golden-straw colour, lighter on edge, with moderately persistent, fine bead. The nose is very fresh with ripe yellow floral and light citrus fruit aromas along with fine, bready yeast autolysis, hints of nuts and toast interwoven with the fruit. This has depth and concentration. Dry to taste with moderate mousse, rich and firm flavours of white and yellow stonefruits form a deep core, complexed with citrus, bread and nutty elements. While the textures are creamy and the acidity is balanced, there is an underlying firm, thirst-quenching dryness to the palate line. The wine finishes with attractively delicate stonefruit, mineral and yeasty notes. This is a fulsome Blanc de Blanc with the potential to develop greater interest over the next 4-5+ years. Serve as an aperitif and with seafood. 18.0/20 Jun 2012 RRP $44.95 (TBC) Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Spade Oak Gisborne Methode Traditionnelle Blanc de Noirs 2009
  Sparkling Wine from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 16-Jul-2012

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Straw-yellow colour with some light golden hues, light on edge. This has a light bead with fine bubbles. This has a very full, rich and weighty bouquet with ripe yellow stonefruit and nutty aromas that form a dense amalgam on the nose, that reveals notes of toast, smoke and bready elements. This shows good autolysis and Pinot Noir character. Dry to taste, rich and lush flavours of ripe stonefruits and nuts merge seamlessly with yeasty, bready flavours. The mousse is lively and creamy, and the mouthfeel very fine-textured and vibrant. The Pinot Noir depth is the feature, but autolysis interest emerges in the glass. The flavours are driven to a very long, mouthwatering and crisp finish with detailed nuances. This is a complex and full flavoured Blanc de Noirs with excellent freshness and balance. Match with seafood, poultry and pork over the next 4-5+ years. A blend of 95% clone 5 Pinot Noir and 5% Chardonnay from the ‘Spade Oak' vineyard, fermented in seasoned French oak with 100% MLF to 12.5% alc. The wine has 6.0 g/L dosage and spend 24 months on lees, being disgorged 7 May 2012 18.5/20 Jun 2012 RRP $39.95 TBC A blend of 95% Clone 5 Pinot Noir and 5% Chardonnay from the ‘Spade Oak' vineyard, totally fermented in seasoned French oak with 100% MLF to 12.5% alc., and carrying a dosage of 6.0 g/L, the wine on lees 12 months, disgorged in October 2011. Light golden yellow colour with a pale edge and a fine bead. This has a soft, full nose, very gentle, with layers of densely packed aromas of yellow stonefruits, toast, nuts, and a little buttery MLF, forming a complex amalgam. Dry to taste, the palate is soft, open and broad, with fine, even effervescence. The flavours of ripe, dark yellow stonefruits intermingle with citrus, nuts, subtle aldehydes and toasty bread, and are seamlessly presented with restrained richness and smooth textures. The mid-palate blossoms with layers of interest, and soft acidity enhances the immediacy of the wine. This is ‘stonefruit heaven' and will be a match with rich seafood, poultry and pork over the next 3-4+ years. 18.0/20 Nov 2011 RRP TBA Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Spade Oak Gisborne Methode Traditionnelle Blanc de Blancs 2014
  Sparkling Wine from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 27-Apr-2016

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright yellow colour with light golden hues, paler on the rim with persistent, moderately fine bubbles. This has a fresh, up-front, vigorous and vibrant bouquet with fruit aromas of white stonefruits and white florals expressed with clarity and purity, and entwined with fie bready yeast autolysis, unfolding subtle nuances of nuts and citrus fruits. Dry to taste and medium-bodied, the palate is elegant in proportion with pure and clear flavours of white stonefruits, white florals and citrus fruits melded with fine, intense, bready autolysis. The mouthfeel is bright and refreshing with creamy mousse enlivening the depth of the autolytic expression. The wine follows a fine phenolic line, and the crisp acidity carries the wine to a lingering, dry, textured finish with some grip, and stonefruit and bready flavours. This is a crisp, refreshing, pure Blanc de Blancs Methode Traditionnelle with intense, bready autolysis. Serve as an aperitif, and with seafood over the next 3+ years. 100% Mendoza clone Chardonnay from the Turanganui block of the ‘Ashwood' vineyard, fermented in 2,500 L cuve and seasoned French oak with 100% MLF to 12.5% alc. The wine has 8.0 g/L dosage and spent 14 months on lees, being disgorged March 2016. 18.0+/20 Apr 2016 RRP $44.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak Gisborne Chardonnay 2007
  Chardonnay from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 14-Feb-2011

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  The first release of Chardonnay under the Spade Oak label. It includes 10% Viognier and was wild yeast fermented to 13.4% alc., then spent 16 months in 20% new French oak equivalence. Bright light golden yellow in colour, this is somewhat reductive on opening, but a complex nutty amalgam with mealy, tropical fruit emerges with breathing. Dry, full-bodied with rich textures, this is rounded and creamy, with complex ripe tropical fruit flavours underlying the nuttiness. It is in a tunnel now, but is sure to emerge with harmony over the next 12-18 months. 17.5+/20 Oct 2010 RRP $34.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Spade Oak ‘Vigneron’ Gisborne Chardonnay 2012
  Chardonnay from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 09-Aug-2013

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  A barrel selection wine. Rua 1 clone Chardonnay fruit from 14 y.o. vines, with 5% Viognier, WBP and fully barrel-fermented with indigenous yeasts to 12.8% alc., the wine aged 11 months in second fill French oak, undergoing batonnage and 100% MLF. Bright straw-yellow colour with light golden hues, light-edged. The bouquet is tightly bound and elegant with fine, poised and detailed aromas of yellow stonefruits, nuts and flinty minerals that grow in interest. Medium-bodied, tightly concentrated and very refined flavours of stonefruits, nuts, oak and minerals are underlined by real power and drive. This has startling intensity, revealing subtle layers of richness and great depth. The fruit, oak and complex, intricate flavours grow with energy, and are carried along a very fine textural line with fresh, lacy acidity. This has a very long, lingering finish featuring citrus, nuts and cream. This is a classically elegant, but powerful Chardonnay with layers of subtle complexities. Match with roasted white meat dishes over the next 4-6 years. 100 cases made. 19.0/20 Aug 2013 RRP $34.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Heart of Gold Gisborne Chardonnay/Viognier 2009
  Blended White from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 18-Jul-2011

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  The blend of Chardonnay and Viognier seems very compatible. This is 60% Chardonnay and 40% Viognier, wild yeast barrel fermented to 13.7% alc. and 2.9 g/L rs., given 50% MLF, then aged in 30% new French oak equivalence. Bright, light golden straw colour, this has a ripe tropical and peach fruited nose lifted with apricotty notes, quite dense, solid, voluminous and textured on nose. Dry, but with real richness and interest on palate, the interaction of ripe tropical fruits some exotic lift, spicy oak all comes together with an oily, unctuous mouthfeel. A full-bodied number. 130 cases made. 18.0-/20 Oct 2010 RRP $28.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Heart of Gold Gisborne Gruner Veltliner 2010
  Gruner Veltliner from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 21-Feb-2013

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, light-golden-hued straw-yellow colour, pale on rim. This has a full and deep nose with concentrated aromas of herbs, white stonefruit and nuts, well integrated and compact. Dry to taste and medium-full bodied, this is well-packed with fruit flavours of white stonefruit, herbs and pepper, the wine showing clarity with weight and vinous presence. The palate has linearity and drive, and is starting to round out, showing some richness and luscious nuances. The palate carries through to a crisp, clean and moderately long finish. .Fruit from the ‘Spade Oak' vineyard fermented to 13.0% alc. and 1 g/L rs, the wine spending 3 months on lees. This Gruner Veltliner has put on weight and richness, and shows good body and linear drive, with herb and stonefruit flavours clearly defined. Drink with seafood and poultry over the next 2+ years. 75 cases made. 17.5+/20 Apr 2012 RRP $24.95 This wine joins the new and small brigade of wineries that are playing with this Austrian white variety. The Voyseys have played it safe, without incorporating a heavy winemaker's hand, the wine spending 3 months on lees. Pale edged, light straw yellow in colour, this is youthful in appearance. This has a fresh, lightly herbal nose with white peach, mineral and peppery aromas, akin a subtle Sauvignon Blanc. This has 13.0% alc. and is dry on palate, with 1.0 g/L rs, but it has good fruit sweetness, and is soft and gentle, yet fresh, with good acidity. It has light herb and pepper notes and is very approachable, drink now - 2 years. 75 cases made. 16.5+/20 Oct 2010 RRP $28.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Heart of Gold Gisborne Syrah/Tempranillo 2009
  Blended Red from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 21-Feb-2013

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  A unusual blend that seems natural for Spain or Australia. 63% Syrah, 37% Tempranillo, this was wild yeast fermented and aged 7 months in 40% new French oak equivalence. Medium deep ruby red in colour. This has a lovely waxy-red berry nose with cedar and spices, a little shy at present. Medium-bodied at 12.8% alc., this is an elegant red with floral lift, black pepper and spice from the Syrah, and dark chocolate flavours with fine, but firm tannins providing excellent grip and structure through the palate. The fruit sweetness carries through well to the finish. 215 cases made. 18.0/20 Oct 2010 RRP $24.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Heart of Gold Gisborne Albarino 2011
  Other White from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 05-Dec-2011

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  From the first Spanish importation of the variety by Riversun Nursery, 990 vines are planted in the ‘Spade Oak' vineyard, 2011 being the first crop. Hand-picked and inoculated yeast fermented to 12.0% alc. and 5 g/L rs, the wine spending 6 months on light lees, with no MLF. Brilliant pale straw-yellw colour, very even with depth. The nose softly packed with intense lime and an array of white and yellow floral aromas. Dry to taste, there are piquant and exotic floral flavours, and white peach notes, very concentrated and weighty in presentation and underlined by elevated, slippery acidity. The textures are simultaneously racy and oily, and the freshness of mouthfeel allied to the cut is a feature. The palate has a long, lingering finish marked by crisp, piercing flavours and acidity. This has great fruit depth and cut, and is a wine to match with tapas, and rich seafood and poultry dishes over the next 3-4+ years. (375 ml) 18.5-/20 Dec 2011 RRP N/A Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Spade Oak ‘Heart of Gold’ Gisborne Albarino 2013
  Other White from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 26-Nov-2013

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Brilliant, light straw-yellow colour with slight hints of gold, lighter on rim. The nose is very fresh and elegant with pure aromas of white florals and citrus zest forming a fine core, cut by minerally elements. Dry to taste and medium-light bodied, light, pure and cutting white stonefruits and exotic floral flavours are enlivened by zesty, bracing acidity. The mouthfeel is racy and slippery and the palate flows with smoothness. This has plenty of tension and energy surrounding the rounded core and the flavours carry through to a bright, refreshing finish with citrus and floral nuances. This is a very crisp, racy, fine-featured Albarino with pure white floral flavours. Serve with seafood and white meat dishes with creamy sauces over the next 3 years. Hand-picked fruit from the ‘Spade Oak; vineyard, third crop, WBP and cool-fermented in stainless-steel to 12.1% alc., and 1.9 g/L RS. 155 dozen made. 17.5/20 Nov 2013 RRP $24.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Heart of Gold Gisborne Petit Manseng 2011
  Other White from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 05-Dec-2011

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  First crop from vines from ENTAV-INRA material sourced through Riversun Nursery. 200 vines planted in the ‘Spade Oak' vineyard. Fruit hand-picked and inoculated yeast fermented to 12.0% alc. with 18 g/L rs. 6 months on light lees with no MLF. Bright, light golden-straw colour with a pale rim. This has a soft, deep and concentrated bouquet of ripe yellow stonefruits with nuances of nuts and savoury tropical fruits, becoming voluminous in the glass. Off-dry, there are rich and full flavours of ripe yellow fruits with honey and spice notes, along with nutty elements forming a weighty, and dense core that is nearly unctuous. High acidity marks the palate, and while very cutting and zesty, a slippery oiliness of texture mollifies the firmness. The acidity carries the long finish of exotic fruits and florals. A distinctively exotic wine with a sense of decadence and weight, the racy acidity will make it a match with rich Asian and Mediterranean influenced cuisine over the next 4+ years. Steve and Eileen Voysey are considering a riper expression in a dessert wine style for the next release of this variety, which is seen as a relation of Gros Manseng. (375 ml) 18.0+/20 Dec 2011 RRP N/A Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Spade Oak ‘Heart of Gold’ Gisborne Rosé 2013
  Rose from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 25-Nov-2013

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Tempranillo fruit from the ‘Spade Oak’ vineyard, destemmed and given 2 days cold soak and fermented in stainless-steel to 12.4% alc. and 8 g/L RS. Soft.pink-red colour with some depth, and lighter purple hues on edge. The bouquet is fresh and tightly bound with focussed aromas of fresh raspberry and red cherry fruit, and subtle nuances of confectionary, spices and herbs. Dryish to taste, full, up-front rich and juicy flavours of raspberries and strawberries fill the mouth with good weight and rounded presence, and a little structural grip. Bright and lively acidity enlivens the mouthfeel, and the palate is thirst-quenching as it follows a fine, textured line. The wine flows easily, with smooth and slippery acidity carrying the flavours to a racy, crisp finish that reveals earth-tinged raspberry elements. This is a fresh, up-front, raspberry-fruited, mouthwatering rosé with the structure to match a variety of foods. Serve with tapas and Mediterranean fare over the next 2 years. 100% Tempranillo, 150 dozen made. 17.5-/20 Nov 2013 RRP $24.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates

• Heart of Gold Gisborne St Laurent 2009
  Other Red from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 07-Apr-2012

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  100% St Laurent, fully destemmed and indigenous yeast fermented to 12.5% alc., the wine aged 7 months in French oak, 20% new equivalence. Very dark ruby-red with slight purple hues, the bouquet is very aromatic with lifted floral perfumes of violets, dark berry fruits and savoury jam with hints of earth. Medium-bodied, the flavours of wild berry fruits, spice, pepper and savoury earth are restrained, but show with a luscious richness. The tannins extraction is moderate and along with the soft acidity, this is becoming integrated, the textures being smooth and supple. There is depth with some concentration at the core, and this leads to a subtle finish with flavours of spicy, savoury red fruits. This aromatic red wine with savoury red fruits, spice and pepper flavours is becoming well-integrated. Match with Middle Eastern poultry, pork and lamb dishes over the next 3-4 years. 75 cases made. 17.5-/20 Apr 2012 RRP $28.95 This Austrian red variety pairs the Gruner Veltliner in the range. It has appeared in Central Otago already, and its Pinot Noir part parentage is a favourable factor. This was made in Pinot Noir fashion: 100% destemmed, indigenous yeast fermented to 12.5% alc., and aged 7 months in French oak, 20% new equivalent. Medium deep ruby red in colour. This has an intense bouquet of spicy, wild red berry fruits, very aromatic, with a little lift adding to the interest. Medium weighted, the bright and spicy red berry fruits and vibrancy from acidity are the feature. Soft, low-impact tannins support the boldness of the fruit lusciousness. The Pinot Noir heritage is obvious. Drink over the next 3-4 years. 75 cases made. 17.5+/20 Oct 2010 RRP $28.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Heart of Gold’ Gisborne St Laurent 2012
  Other Red from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 25-Mar-2015

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Moderately dark ruby-red colour, lighter on rim. The bouquet is fresh and elegant, quite slender in presentation, with lifted savoury red berry fruits, nuances of dried herbs and spices, and subtle oak detail. Light=medium bodied, the palate is elegant with light, but juicy and lively, savoury red cherry and berry fruit flavours along with dried herb and lifted red floral elements. The wine follows a fine core with brisk acidity and restrained, supple tannins. The extraction is modest and allows accessibility, and the wine leads to a fresh finish carried by the acidity. This is a light-structured, fresh and juicy, St Laurent with lively mouthfeel. Match with Mediterranean fare over the next 3 years. Hand-picked St Laurent fruit with 6% Syrah and 2% Tempranillo from the ‘Spade Oak’ vineyard, destemmed, given a cold soak and wild yeast fermented to 12.5% alc., the wine aged 15 months in barrel with 30% new oak equivalence. 16.5+/20 Mar 2015 RRP $24.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Heart of Gold’ Gisborne St Laurent 2013
  Other Red from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 05-Jul-2016

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Spade Oak ‘Heart of Gold’ Gisborne St Laurent 2013 «««« Very dark, deep, ruby-red colour with some black-purple hues. The nose is softly full and gently voluminous with aromatically sweet and ripe aromas of dark raspberry and dark-red berry fruits along with red florals, some savoury, spicy game, and lifted volatile elements. Medium-bodied, the palate features bright, juicy , lively and aromatically ripe savoury dark red berry fruit flavours melded with dark herbal and dark red floral notes with lifted esters and some volatility. The mouthfeel is fine-textured and is enlivened by fresh, lacy acidity, forming a supple core with good linearity. The flavours carry to a fine-textured, lingering finish. This is a bright, ripe, juicy and luscious St Laurent with savoury dark –red berry flavours with savoury suggestions, a supple and lively mouthfeel, and some lifted notes. Match with Asian fare, and wild duck and pork over the next 4-5 years. 95% St Laurent and 5% Syrah from the ‘Spade Oak’ Vineyard’, destemmed and indigenous yeast fermented to 12.5% alc. and 3.5 g/L RS, the wine spending 26 days on skins and aged 12 months in French oak barrels, with 25% new oak equivalence. 125 dozen made. 17.5-/20 Jul 2016 RRP $$24.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Heart of Gold’ Gisborne Tempranillo 2012
  Tempranillo from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 12-Dec-2013

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Dark, deep ruby-red colour, lighter on rim with youthful purple hues. The nose is firm and intense with concentrated savoury black and red berry fruits along with a dusty and earth, resinous note, opening to reveal savoury and sweet vanilla-like nuances. Medium-full bodied, strong and up-front flavours of savoury and sweet black and dark red fruit flavours are encased by grainy tannin textures. An array of flavours show, with savoury vanilla and sweet earthy prominent, and some resinous nuances that diminish in the glass. The mouthfeel is robust with significant extract and grip, and lively, with a good acid line that carries the flavours to a gutsy, textured and dry finish. This is a robust and grainy textured Tempranillo with sweet and savoury dark red fruit flavours and a little resinous detail. Serve with barbecued or slow-cooked red meats over the next 5-6 years. 90% Tempranillo and 10% Syrah from the ‘Spade Oak’ vineyard, destemmed, given a 5 day cold soak and indigenous yeast fermented to 13.5% alc., the wine spending 7 days on skins post ferment and aged 14 months in oak, 30% new equivalence. 375 dozen made. 17.0+/20 Dec 2013 RRP $24.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Heart of Gold’ Gisborne Tempranillo 2014
  Tempranillo from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 27-Apr-2016

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Tempranillo fruit from the ‘Spade Oak’ vineyard fermented to 13.0% alc., the wine aged 12 months in oak with 25% new equivalence. Even ruby-red colour, a little lighter on the rim with a touch of garnet. This has a very fresh and fragrant, elegantly presented nose of red berry and dark-red cherry fruit intermixed with delicate, piquant herb and spice notes, revealing redcurrant and pomegranate elements. Medium-bodied, the palate is tightly bound with refined and pure, vibrant fruit flavours of dark red cherry fruit entwined with redcurrants and red florals, along with herbs, liquorice and spice nuances. The flavours have good intensity and are supported by fine-grained tannins. Bright acidity enhances the aromatic lift and carries the wine to a long, fragrant finish. This is a bright, aromatic Tempranillo with red cherry and herb flavours, fine tannins and a fresh mouthfeel. Match with poultry and pork over the next 4+ years. 17.0/20 Apr 2016 RRP $24.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Voysey’ Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2013
  Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 31-Mar-2014

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Marlborough fruit cool-fermented to 13.3% alc. and 4.9 g/L RS, with a very small percentage of the wine seeing oak, undergoing MLF and contact with lees. Bright pale straw-yellow colour with slight green hues on edge. The nose is very fresh with tightly packed and elegantly expressed aromas of passionfruit with a steely cut and mouthwatering freshness. Dry to taste and medium-bodied, the palate features a concentrated core of passionfruit flavours underlined by very fine, dry textures. The acidity is racy and slippery, balancing the textures, providing a sense of lusciousness. The flavours are tight and stylish, remaining clean, clear and focussed, and possess a positive linear drive carrying the flavours to a very long, soft finish with tropical fruit notes. This is a well-concentrated and focussed, passionfruity, dry Sauvignon Blanc, with a fresh and slippery mouthfeel. Serve with seafood, salads and vegetables, and creamy sauce white meat dishes over the next 2 years. 17.5+/20 Apr 2014 RRP $19.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates
• Spade Oak ‘Voysey’ Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2014
  Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 24-Feb-2015

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, light, straw-yellow colour, pale on rim. This has a fresh, tightly bound, aromatic nose with white florals, cut grass, nettles and lantana, lifted by exotic florals and tropical fruit elements. Dry to taste and medium-bodied, the palate is slender in proportion with aromatic grass, herb and floral fruit flavours. The mouthfeel is smooth with slippery acidity providing drive along a fine-featured, textural line. The acidity is crisp and mouthwatering, and carries the wine to an elegant, slim, dry finish. This is a crisp, thirst-quenching Sauvignon Blanc with cut grass and aromatic, exotic fruit flavours. Match with Asian and Pacific Rim fare over the next 2 years. Fruit primarily from the Waihopi and Wairau Valleys, blended with 9% Gisborne Viognier, the wine fermented partially by indigenous yeasts to 13.2% alc and 5.0 g/L RS with TA 7.5 g/L. 17.0/20 Feb 2015 RRP $19.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Voysey’ Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2016
  Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand - Marlborough

  Review Date : 14-Dec-2016

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, very pale straw colour with slight green hues, near colourless on the rim. The nose is very fresh with tightly bound and concentrated, intensely penetrating aromas of pungent passionfruit with piquant fresh herbs and white florals, all integrated, unfolding nuances of chalky minerals. Dry to taste and medium-bodied, the palate is crisp and racy with a tight core of passionfruit flavours entwined with white florals and chalky minerals. The mouthfeel is brisk and thirst-quenching from the zesty acidity and the wine flows along a light-textured phenolic line that carries to a dry finish of passionfruit, fresh herbs and cut grass. This is a crisp, racy, mouthwatering Sauvignon Blanc with passionfruit, white floral and mineral flavours on a light-textured, dry palate. A blend of 90% Sauvignon Blanc from the ‘Bank House’ (ex Ara) vineyard and 10% Albarino, fermented in stainless-steel to 12.6% alc. and 3 g/L RS, the wine aged 5 months on light lees. 17.5-/20 Dec 2016 RRP $19.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Voysey’ Gisborne Pinot Gris 2013
  Pinot Gris from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 19-Mar-2014

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, light golden-yellow with a suggestion of blush, pale on edge. The nose is light and fresh with steely, minerally infused yellow stonefruit aromas, lifted by hints of honeysuckle and esters. Medium-dry to taste, soft and lush, gently sweet flavours of ripe stonefruits, apricots, pears and honeysuckle form a rounded mouthfeel with attractive lusciousness. The acidity is soft and the mouthfeel smooth and mellow. This has a degree of unctuousness with the flavours carried by the sweetness to a gentle, honied finish. Though quite steely on bouquet, this medium Pinot Gris has a smooth and rich mouthfeel. Match with Asian and Middle Eastern fare over the next 3+ years. 39% ‘M2’ Grigio clone and 33% 2/15 from Alsace, 21% Barrie, the remainder clone457, from the ‘Leaderbrand’ vineyards, fermented to 13.1% alc. and 18.5 g/L RS, 25% of the wine in large oak cuves, with 4 months on lees and 75% MLF. 17.5-/20 Mar 2014 RRP $19.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Voysey’ Gisborne Pinot Gris 2014
  Pinot Gris from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 24-Feb-2015

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Gisborne fruit, 66% M2 Pinot Grigio and 21% 457 Alsace Pinot Gris clones blended with 8% Marsanne, 3% Viognier and 2% Petit Manseng fermented to 13.8% alc. and 13.3 g/L RS, TA 5.89 g/L and pH 3.38, the wine aged 6 months on lees. Moderately deep straw-yellow colour with some blush, lighter on rim. The nose is soft and gentle with good volume of ripe yellow stonefruits, pears and honey, lifted with spice notes and yellow florals, revealing a steely freshness at the core. Medium-dry to taste and medium-bodied, gently rich and luscious flavours of yellow stonefruits and pears form a good core, the flavours unfolding exotic spices and honey elements. The fruit expression has restraint. but is enlivened by fresh acidity, and the wine flows easily along a delicately textured line. The mouthfeel is balanced and harmonious, and the wine carries to a long and sustained, aromatic finish. This is a fresh, gently rich, aromatic, medium-dry Pinot Gris with balance and linearity. Serve with Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine over the next 2-3+ years. 17.5/20 Feb 2015 RRP $19.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Voysey’ Gisborne Pinot Gris 2015
  Pinot Gris from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 20-Oct-2015

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, pale straw-yellow colour, light on the rim. The nose is full and gently voluminous with moderately deep aromas of white stonefruits, pears and subtle musk, honeysuckle, florals and fermentation esters detail. Medium-dry to taste and medium-bodied, fresh, up-front flavours of pears, stonefruits and honeysuckle show with a gentle richness. The mouthfeel is balanced and refreshing with lacy acidity, and the wine follows a fine-textured line. As the wine flows, the honied sweetness recedes and the palate carries to a light, mouthwatering, lingering finish with floral nuances. This is a fresh, up-front, medium-dry Pinot Gris with soft pear and stonefruit flavours and a crisp, light finish. Serve as an aperitif and with Asian cuisine over the next 2+ years. 60% clone M2 and 40% clone 457, from the ‘Ashwood’ vineyards, fermented in tank to 13.0% alc. and 12.5 g/L RS, the wine aged 3 months on light lees. 16.5+/20 Oct 2015 RRP $19.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Voysey’ Gisborne Pinot Gris 2016
  Pinot Gris from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 03-Apr-2017

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, very pale straw colour with slight green hues, near colourless on the rim. This is very elegant andfine in presentation with fragrant aromas of white stonefruits and pears, along with exotic rose-petal florals and honeysuckle notes, unfolding fresh, lifted fermentation esters. Medium-dry to taste and light-medium bodied, the palate has an elegant, tightly bound core with aromatic white stonefruit and pear flavours entwined with pears, honeysuckle, exotic florals and lifted esters. The palate builds in richness as it flows along a smooth line, with soft acidity enhancing the roundness, but providing underlying tension. The wine leads to a light aromatic finish. This is a gently rich, medium-dry Pinot Gris with aromatic fruit lift and a soft, accessible palate. Match with Asian and Middle Eastern fare over the next 2-3 years. Clones 457 and M2 fruit from Gisborne, tank-fermented to 13.0% alc. and 10 g/L RS, the wine aged 6 months on lees. 415 dozen made. 17.5-/20 Apr 2017 RRP $19.95
• Spade Oak ‘Voysey’ Gisborne Pinot Gris 2017
  Pinot Gris from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 08-Jul-2018

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, very pale straw yellow colour, lighter on the rim. This has a very fresh and elegant nose of soft and delicate, but positive aromas of white and yellow stonefruits, showing a fine and concentrated core of honeysuckle and nuances of exotic florals. This has clarity and purity. Off-dry to taste and medium-bodied, the palate has restrained flavours of white and yellow stonefruits lifted by exotic floral notes and enriched by oft honeysuckle notes. The flavours grow in volume to gently fill the palate lending a suggestion of unctuousness. The wine flows smoothly along a very fine line, leading to a subtly nuanced, lingering finish. This is a stylishly restrained off-dry Pinot Gris with stonefruit, floral and honeysuckle flavours on a smooth-flowing palate. Serve with Thai, Vietnamese and Japanese cuisine over the next 3 years. Fruit from the ‘Ashwood’ vineyard, 65% M2, 21% 2/15 and 14% 457 clone fruit, tank-fermented to 13.5% alc. and 10.0 g/L RS, the wine aged 5 months on lees. 17.5+/20 Oct 2017 RRP $19.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Voysey’ Patutahi Gewurztraminer 2012
  Gewurztraminer from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 06-May-2013

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Brilliant, even golden-yellow colour, lighter on edge. The bouquet is soft, full and broad, with up-front aromas of ripe yellow stonefruits, tropical fruits and musk entwined with Turkish Delight and ginger. Medium-dry to taste and medium-bodied, this has mouthfilling flavours of ripe tropical fruits, ginger, spices and musk. There are rich and luscious savoury honey elements, enlivened by fresh, bright acidity. While open and accessible, there is an underlying solidness that carries the flavours to a long, fruit-driven finish. This is an up-front and flavoursome savoury-spicy medium-dry Gewurztraminer with some richness and good freshness. Serve with Middle Eastern and Asian fare over the next 3 years. Fruit from two sites in the Patutahi district of Gisborne, cool-fermented to 12.8% alc. and 18 g/L rs. 220 dozen made. 17.5-/20 May 2013 RRP $20.00 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Voysey’ Gisborne Chardonnay 2012
  Chardonnay from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 09-Aug-2013

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, light golden-yellow colour with some depth, lighter on rim. The nose is softly full and broad with aromas of ripe yellow stonefruits and citrus fruits unfolding subtle layers of nuts, butter and oak toast. Dryish to taste, luscious, up-front and mouthfilling flavours of ripe citrus and stonefruits form a rich and harmonious amalgam with notes of nuts, butter and toast. This has depth and a solid core to the palate, the softness of the acidity adding to the mellowness of the mouthfeel. The flavours flow smoothly on a creamy-textured line, leading to a long, sustained finish with savoury stonefruit and nutty nuances. This is a full, up-front and mouthfilling Chardonnay with fruit richness and smooth textures. Match with creamy and rich white meat dishes over the next 2-3+ years. 78% ‘Spade Oak’ fruit with 10% Viognier, plus 22% ‘Ashwood’ fruit, the ‘Spade Oak’ vines 14 y.o., 25% WBP and fully barrel-fermented, mainly with indigenous yeasts to 12.5% alc., the wine aged 11 months in 10% new French oak, undergoing batonnage and 100% MLF. 800 cases made. 18.0/20 Aug 2013 RRP $19.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Voysey’ Gisborne Chardonnay 2013
  Chardonnay from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 19-Mar-2014

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, even, light golden-hued straw-yellow colour. This has an elegant ant tightly bound nose of fresh and clean citrus fruits along with some butterscotch MLF notes. The oaking is very subtle, providing some nutty detail. Dry to taste and medium-bodied, light and restrained citrus and stonefruit flavours are entwined with some butterscotch MLF, forming a mellow, smooth-flowing mouthfeel. Fresh, lacy acidity provides some cut and linearity, with good drive. Flavours of ripe stonefruits and nuts with some flinty elements emerge and lead to a finish with MLF butterscotch nuances. This is an elegant, tightly bound and smooth Chardonnay with stonefruit and butterscotch flavours. Serve with poultry and pork over the next 3-4 years. 40% Mendoza, 35% clone 15, 10% each Rua 1 and clone 95, with 5% Viognier. Fruit from 85% ‘Leaderbrand’ vineyards and 15% Spade Oak’, 20% barrel-fermented to 13.5% alc. and 4.7 g/L RS, with 20% of the wine aged in oak, the remainder in tank given 20% new wood equivalence. The wine saw 8 months on lees with 80% MLF. 17.0+/20 Mar 2014 RRP $19.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Voysey’ Gisborne Chardonnay 2014
  Chardonnay from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 20-Oct-2015

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Brilliant straw-yellow colour with light golden hues and some depth. The nose is elegantly concentrated with aromas of melons and citrus fruits, along with aromatic yellow stonefruits entwined with spicy oak and layers of lemon-curd MLF. Some underlying nutty and creamy elements unfold as the MLF notes blossom. Medium-bodied, this has an elegant core of melons, peaches and citrus fruits, the wine showing good richness and succulence. The fruit sweetness is enlivened by fresh, lacy acidity and the mouthfeel is bright and energetic. Layers of spicy, nutty oak unfold, with plenty of lemon-curd and buttery MLF flavour. The palate core flows along a subtly-textured line leading to long, dry finish with oak and MLF notes. This is an elegant Chardonnay with lively, aromatic, citrus and melon fruit, along with nutty and lemon-curd MLF flavours. Match with seafood, poultry and pork over the next 3+ years. A blend of 88% Chardonnay and 12% Viognier, fruit 70% from the ‘Ashwood’ vineyard and 30% ‘Spade Oak’, 30% of the fruit indigenous yeast barrel-fermented with high solids to 13.2% alc., the wine aged 14 months in 15% new oak equivalence, undergoing batonnage and full MLF. 17.0/20 Oct 2015 RRP $19.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Voysey’ Gisborne Rosé 2014
  Rose from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 24-Feb-2015

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Pale ruby rosé colour with some depth and light purple on rim. The nose is fresh with voluminous aromas of dark cherry fruit with nuances of savoury strawberries and cream, along with a little confectionary lift and minerally lees. Dryish to taste and medium-bodied, the palate features positive raspberry and cream fruit flavours alongside bitter cherry notes, lifted by confectionary elements. The fruit and sweetness fills the palate, enhanced by a slippery, racy acid mouthfeel. The wine follows a fine textural line that carries through to a crisp, lusciously juicy, slippery finish with savoury raspberry notes. This is a crisp, slippery, mouthwatering Tempranillo rosé with savoury raspberries and cream flavours. Serve with antipasto and tapas over the next 2 years. 100% Tempranillo spending 3 days on skins and fermented to 12.5% alc. and 8.4 g/L RS, the wine spending one month on lees. 17.0+/20 Feb 2015 RRP $19.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Voysey’ Gisborne Syrah 2013
  Syrah from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 24-Feb-2015

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Dark, deep, purple-hued ruby-red colour, very youthful in appearance. This has a full, open and accessible nose of rich, ripe dark raspberry and blackberry fruit flavours along with savoury floral, jam and spice elements, leather and game interest, black pepper and bacon-nuanced oak. Medium-bodied and elegant in proportion, the flavours of black and red berry fruits are tightly concentrated with a core melded with spices, pepper and oak. The mouthfeel is brisk, racy and zesty from prominent acidity. Fine-grained tannins carry the fruit and palate to a long, lingering, spicy, cedary finish. Open and aromatic on nose this is a tightly concentrated and fine-grained Syrah with spicy and cedary flavours and a racy mouthfeel. Match with barbecued and roasted red meat dishes over the next 4-5 years. ‘Spade Oak’ vineyard Syrah co-fermented with 5% Viognier and blended with 8% St Laurent, the wine 12.9% alc. and aged 12 months in 15% new French oak equivalence. 17.5-/20 Feb 2015 RRP $19.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Voysey’ Gisborne Syrah 2014
  Syrah from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 27-Apr-2016

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Dark, moderately deep ruby-red colour with slight purple hues, lighter edged. The nose is gently full with softly packed aromas of savoury dark-red berry fruits layered with spice, earth and game elements, unfolding liquorice and red floral elements, along with dried herbs and black pepper. Medium-bodied, the palate is up-front with lusciously sweet flavours of dark red berry fruits with savoury herb, earth and game notes, forming a soft, dense core. The fruit is supported by supple tannin extraction and fresh, bright acidity, enlivening the mouthfeel. As the wine flows, funky liquorice and dark herbal elements emerge and carry to a lively, sweet-fruited lingering finish. This is a rich, savoury, dark-red-fruited Syrah with funky interest and a refreshing, well balanced and supple-structured palate. Match with pasta, pizza and barbecued fare over the next 3+ years. Syrah fruit with 6% Viognier from the ‘Spade Oak’ vineyard, co-fermented to 13.0% alc., the wine aged 12 months in oak with 25% new equivalence. 17.0/20 Apr 2016 RRP$19.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Voysey’ Gisborne Syrah 2015
  Syrah from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 22-Aug-2017

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Moderately deep, dark ruby-red colour, a little lighter on the edge with slight garnet tints. The nose is elegantly presented with gently voluminous aromas of raspberry fruit along with fragrant yellow florals and apricot elements, lifted by red florals, unfolding a little liquorice and spice from the core. Medium-full bodied, the palate soft, juicy and lush with aromatic flavours of red florals and dark raspberry fruit along with lifted yellow floral and stonefruit notes. The flavours form a rounded, but concentrated core, and the fruit is supported by supple tannin extraction and integrated acidity. The wine flows smoothly along a light, textured line to a fragrant, lingering finish. This is a supple, juicy Syrah with raspberry fruit intermixed with Viognier florals, on a supple palate with light textures and good linearity. Match with Asian and Middle Eastern fare over the next 4 years. A blend of 88% Syrah and 10% Viognier co-fermented with 2% St Laurent and Tempranillo, 10% of the Viognier and 35% of the Syrah fermented as whole bunches, with 55% of the Syrah as uncrushed berries to 13.5% alc., all the wine aged 18 months in French oak with 40% new equivalence. 17.5-/20 Aug 2017 RRP $19.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates.
• Spade Oak Sangria
  Other Red from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 20-Feb-2013

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Being a wine-based beverage rather than wine, I have not rated or scored the Spade Oak Sangria. This is Eileen and Steve Voysey's interpretation of sangria, the wine and fruit-based punch popular in Spain and the Mediterranean.  It is based on Tempranillo from home vineyard with a little Syrah in the blend. The rest is made up of local Gisborne cider, organic orange, lemon and grape juices. This is akin to a spritzig rosé crossed with a deliciously dry fruit cooler. With the appearance of raspberry cordial, it has a vinous aroma of refreshingly cool red fruits. Raspberries and red currants are apparent. Surprisingly dry, subtle red fruit flavours seamlessly flow, mixed with a hint of citrus and apple. There are no confectionary flavours at all. The acidity is the feature, and the palate is juicy and mouthwatering with a hint of sourness to provide quenchability. Some spritz tingle on the tongue shows, and the alcohol is hardly detectable. This is very easy to enjoy. Click here to see my 'Blog' article for more information.  Not Scored or Rated  Feb 2013  RRP $16.95 Disclaimer: This wine-based beverage is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade', the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews' operates.
• The Prospect Ormond/Patutahi Gisborne Chardonnay 2014
  Chardonnay from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 27-Apr-2016

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, light golden-yellow colour with some depth, paler on the rim. This has a fine and tightly bound nose of yellow stonefruits harmoniously melded with citrus fruits, soft nutty elements and suggestions of minerals. The fruit expression is initially reserved but grows in depth, revealing toasty oak interest. Medium-full bodied, the palate is restrained and elegant in proportion with flavours of yellow stonefruits and nutty oak, entwined with creamy barrel-ferment and mealy layers. The palate is guided by a fine phenolic line and enlivened by fresh, lacy acidity, and carry to a slender, but lingering, dry finish of citrus fruit and nuts. This is an elegant and softly concentrated Chardonnay with stonefruit and nutty flavours with some mealy interest and a fine, dry finish. Match with grilled and roasted poultry and pork dishes over the next 4 years. Clones Mendoza, 15 and 95 from two sites, one in Ormond, the other in Patutahi, fermented in barrel and cuve with high solids, partially by indigenous yeasts to 13.5% alc., the wine aged 12 months in French oak with 40% new equivalence. 17.5/20 Apr 2016 RRP $27.00 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• The Prospect Ormond/Patutahi Gisborne Chardonnay 2015
  Chardonnay from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 20-Jun-2017

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, even yellow colour with light golden hues, a little lighter on the edge. This has a fresh, bright and aromatic nose of white and yellow stonefruits along with subtle creamy barrel-ferment and nutty oak notes along with hints of MLF. The aromatics are sweetly ripe and also complex with savoury notes. Medium-full bodied, the palate features vibrant and lively white and yellow stonefruit flavours that form a firm and taut core. The palate has layers of subtle nutty oak and creamy barrel-ferment detail with hints of flinty lees and subtle lemon-curd MLF elements. The mouthfeel is fresh and lively and fine in concentration, and the wine carries to a long and sustained, firmly bound finish with refined textures. This is a fragrant, finely concentrated Chardonnay with yellow stonefruits and complexing detail on a refined, fresh palate. This will develop greater richness over the next 4+ years. An Indevin wine made by Steve Voysey. Clone 95 and 15 fruit from vines, 11 y.o., from Waihirere heavy silt loam, Kaiti loam clay and Makaraka silt loam soils, pressed with high solids directly to barrel and fermented 13.5% alc., a portion by indigenous yeasts, the wine aged 11 months in 21% new French oak. 18.5+/20 Apr 2017 RRP $27.00 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• The Prospect Ormond Gisborne Chardonnay 2016
  Chardonnay from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 03-Jan-2018

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Full, light golden-yellow colour with some depth, a little lighter on the rim. The nose is elegantly concentrated with aromas of ripe yellow stonefruits, peaches and citrus fruits harmoniously integrated with creamy barrel-ferment, and nutty lees and oak detail, unveiling a little lemon-curd and butterscotch MLF. This has lovely richness and depth. Medium-full bodied, the palate has intensely deep and well-concentrated flavours of ripe yellow stonefruits, peaches and melons, and citrus fruits, along with tropical fruit nuances. The fruit is melded with a layering of creamy barrel-ferment and nutty oak, and buttery MLF. The flavours carry with good energy and drive with some underlying power along a very fine-textured line enlivened by fresh acidity, to a sustained citrussy and nutty finish. This is a rich, deep Chardonnay with up-front stonefruit and citrus fruit flavours along with creamy and nutty oak and an integrated layering of MLF. Match with roasted pork and veal dishes over the next+ years. Hand-picked Mendoza and clone 95 fruit from ‘Ashwood Estate’, vines 10 y.o. on average, WBP and 50% indigenous yeast fermented with full solids to 13.5% alc., the wine aged11 months in 25% new French oak and 60% MLF. 18.5+/20 Jan 2018 RRP $27.00 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Voysey’ Gisborne Chardonnay 2017
  Chardonnay from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 03-Jan-2018

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright straw-yellow colour with light golden hues, a little paler on edge. The nose is moderately full with fresh, deep aromas of white and yellow stonefruits with savoury stonefruit pith at the core along with a subtle layering of lifted and nutty oak notes unfolding with breadth. Dry to taste and medium-bodied, the palate has vibrantly rich flavours of yellow stonefruits, citrus fruits and harmoniously melded sweetly fragrant and nutty oak notes that grow in depth and breadth. The mouthfeel is fresh and bright, with balanced, lacy acidity and the wine blossoms as it flows along a fine, crisp line, leading to a lingering finish. This is a vibrant and rich stonefruited and nutty Chardonnay with a bright and fresh mouthfeel, blossoming as it flows. Match with seafood, poultry and pork over the next 3+ years. Indevin sourced fruit, 38% clone 548 from Ormond, 25% clone 15 from an ex-‘Saints’ vineyard, 10% Muscat clone 809, blended with mixed clones Mendoza, 95 and 6, and 10% indigenous yeast barrel-fermented Viognier from the ‘Spade Oak’ vineyard. The wine 85% tank-fermented and 15% in seasoned oak to 13.0% alc., the wine given 4 months oak contact equivalent to 25% new, with 8 months aging on lees and 70% MLF. 17.5+/20 Jan 2018 RRP $19.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Heart of Gold’ Gisborne Albarino 2014
  Other White from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 20-Jul-2016

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Brilliant straw-yellow with lemon-gold hues. The nose is softly fresh and well-packed with a complex amalgam of white stonefruits, white florals, fresh and pungent herbs, and nutty, mineral elements that build in depth. Dry to taste and medium-bodied, the palate features a complex core of white stonefruits, florals and pungent herbs, infused with flint and mineral interest. The mouthfeel is fresh and crisp with fine and soft phenolic textures underlining the fruit. This has a fine, concentrated, rounded heart balanced by mouthwatering, lacy acidity to leads to a herb-nuanced, minerally finish. This s a complex Albarino with stonefruit and pungent herb flavours and a fresh, fine-textured mouthfeel. Serve with herb-marinated seafood over the next 3+ years. 100% Albarino from the ‘Spade Oak’ vineyard, hand-picked and cool-fermented in stainless-steel to 12.5% alc. and 6.7 g/L RS, TA 7.6 g/L and pH 3.35. 125 dozen made. 16.5+/20 Jul 2016 RRP $24.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Heart of Gold’ Gisborne Rosé 2016
  Rose from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 12-Dec-2016

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Cherry-peach pink colour with some depth and lighter purple hues on the edge. The nose is softly full with packed aromas of savoury raspberry fruit intermingling with cherries, cranberries, red florals and nuances of confectionary at the core. Dryish to taste and light-medium bodied, the palate is rounded with concentrated flavours of savoury raspberries, cherries, cranberries and pomegranate harmoniously integrated with lifted confectionary elements. The fruit is rich, and balanced by soft, smooth textures and gentle, mouthwatering acidity that allows the fruitiness to prevail. The fruit sweetness carries to a gently full, aromatic finish of raspberries and confectionary. This is a gently rich and concentrated dryish rosé with savoury raspberry and cranberry flavours and a soft, mouthwatering palate. Match with antipasto and tapas over the next 2 years. 100% Tempranillo from the ‘Spade Oak’ vineyard fermented in tank with 5% seasoned oak Tempranillo blended to 12.5% alc. and 7 g/L RS. 17.5-/20 Dec 2016 RRP $24.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Heart of Gold’ Gisborne Syrah/Tempranillo 2013
  Blended Red from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 24-Feb-2015

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Full, dark, deep, ruby-red colour with black-purple hues. The nose is firmly concentrated with dense aromas of blackberry fruit intermixed with mineral and earth, smoke and leather, and savoury black pepper detail, along with violet florals. Medium-full bodied, full, soft and mellow layers of blackberry, violet floral, black pepper and Middle Eastern spice flavours form a richly packed palate. The mouthfeel is balanced by fine-grained, supple tannins and positive structure, and the acidity is integrated, lending good freshness and liveliness. The wine is bright and vibrant, leading to a long, lingering dry finish with spice and oak nuances. This is a soft and well-integrated and balanced Syrah blend with Tempranillo with spicy black fruits and supple tannins. Match with slow-cooked red meat dishes over the next 5-6 years. A blend of 50% Syrah and 5% Viognier with 45% Tempranillo from the ‘Spade Oak’ vineyard, fermented to 12.8% alc., the wine aged 12 months in 25% new French oak equivalence. 18.0/20 Feb 2015 RRP $24.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Voysey’ Gisborne Rosé 2015
  Rose from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 27-Apr-2016

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  The second bottling of this wine, distinguished by a white label rather than black. Ablend of 86% Tempranillo and 14% St Laurent from the ‘Spade Oak’ vineyard, given 12 hours skin contact and cool-fermented in tank to 12.2% alc. and 8.5 g/L RS. The wine was given further tank maturation before bottling. Peach pink colour with some depth, a little lighter on the rim. The nose is attractively fresh and aromatic with aromas of strawberries, cranberries and watermelon, unfolding soft red floral and gentle confectionary elements. Off-dry to taste and light-medium bodied, this has soft, but up-front flavours of strawberries entwined with cranberry and watermelon notes. Subtle floral and confectionary elements emerge in the glass. The mouthfeel is soft with a fine, drying phenolic line and mild acidity lending a gently refreshing palate that carries to a light, lingering finish of strawberries and cranberries. This is a soft, up-front, refreshing off-dry rosé with strawberry and cranberry flavours. Serve as an aperitif, with canapes, tapas and dim sum over the next 2 years. 17.0+/20 Apr 2016 RRP $19.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates Bright, pale peach-pink colour, lighter on edge. This has a very delicate nose with clean and fresh aromas of strawberries, savoury quince and cranberries, lifted by red floral notes and subtle herb elements. Off-dry to taste and light-medium bodied, the palate shows light, gently rich fruit flavours of strawberries and quince, along with lifted red floral elements. The wine follows a smooth flowing line, and the mouthfeel is enlivened by bright, racy and slippery acidity. A fine textural thread leads the palate to a light, mouthwatering, dry finish with delicate strawberry nuances. This is a refreshing, clean, delicately fruited off-dry rosé with strawberry and quince flavours and a slippery mouthfeel. Serve as an aperitif, with canapes and with charcuterie over the next 18 months to 2 years. A blend of 86% Tempranillo and 14% St Laurent from the ‘Spade Oak’ vineyard, given 12 hours skin contact and cool-fermented in tank to 12.2% alc. and 8.5 g/L RS. 16.5/20 Oct 2015 RRP $19.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates
• Spade Oak ‘Heart of Gold’ Gisborne Tempranillo Rosé 2017
  Rose from New Zealand - Gisborn

  Review Date : 18-Jan-2018

  ☆☆☆☆☆

  Bright, pale strawberry-pink colour with some depth and hints of purple on the rim. The nose is delicate in presentation with delicate, fragrant aromas of strawberries and cream with soft red florals and subtle notes of confectionary. This is pretty and has beauty. Off-dry to taste and medium-bodied, the palate has subtly sweet and rich, but poised flavours of strawberries and cream ans an amalgam of aromatic red florals, with cherry confectionary. The fruitiness and sweetness is balanced by soft, refreshing acidity, and the wine flows with tension and vibrancy, leading to a long, fragrant finish of red florals and confectionary. This is a gently rich, but poised, off-dry rosé with strawberries and cream, soft red florals and confectionary notes on a smooth-flowing palate. Serve with antipasto, tapas, and Asian cuisine over the next 2 years. Saignee wine, the fruit from the ‘Spade Oak’ vineyard, tank-fermented to 12.0% alc. and 8.5 g/L RS, the wine aged 7 months on light lees. 18.0+/20 Jan 2018 RRP $24.95 Disclaimer: This wine is distributed by ‘Wine2Trade’, the company under which ‘Raymond Chan Wine Reviews’ operates