27-Dec-2018
Pinot Gris came later on the scene for the New Zealand wine industry, after fellow aromatics Gewurztraminer and Riesling, but has now well-overtaken these varieties by far. It is the fourth most prolific variety after Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, with approx. 2,500 ha planted, well ahead of Riesling at around 700 ha and Gewurztraminer at 230 ha.
Most wine producers with a broad portfolio have Pinot Gris in the mix, and Palliser Estate in Martinborough is no exception. Besides the Palliser ‘Estate’ wine, there is the ‘Pencarrow’ second brand and ‘The Luminary’ a range designed for FMCG channels. Winemaker Allan Johnson has been right down the middle of the line stylistically with these wines, which are based on stonefruit and floral flavours, with honied notes on an off-dry palate where oak is not employed, and other inputs that could take away from the fruit expression kept at a very minimal level. It’s the most popular and expected style. Here, I review the new release 2018 ‘The Luminary’ and ‘Pencarrow’ Pinot Gris.
And a recent development, Allan Johnson, Palliser’s chief winemaker and viticulturist ha stepped down from his role. Allan joined Palliser Estate in 1991 and has developed the company’s wines to its very high level of quality and consistency. Guy McMaster, who arrived at Palliser Estate in 2016, following time at Urlar in Gladstone, and Escarpment in Martinborough previously will take over from Allan. www.palliser.co.nz
