Ant Mackenzie is in the process of consolidating his brands after a fairly rapid period of growth, not only in production, but in commercialisation. That said, there continues to be growth. With his sourcing of more Chardonnay fruit, from ‘Oak Estate’ (the former ‘Salvare’ vineyard), Ant has called for assistance from his brother, a viticulturist, in managing the crop.
His ‘Theory & Practice’ wines are made in partnership with other growers and winemakers, where he highlights the best qualities of the region of origin in a contemporary style. You could read into that he has a degree of free rein to push towards certain styles that he thinks will work well with the fruit. Hence the name ‘Theory & Practice’. Here, I review three of his latest wines under the ‘Theory & Practice’ label. www.antswines.co.nz
