24-Feb-2017
The Sowman family operate the Walnut Block label with wines from their 17 ha Rapaura vineyard that was established in 1996. The vineyard was certified BioGro organic in 2013. There is the more accessible ‘Collectables Series’ with Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, and now a Rosé from the 2016 vintage. The ‘Reserve’ styled wines come under the ‘Nutcracker’ tier, which has Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Family-run, Clyde is the managing director, Nigel tends to the viticulture and Helen the logistics. The Sowmans have Gordon Ritchie as their winemaker. Here, I review the 2016 ‘Collectables’ Sauvignon Blanc and Rosé, the latter wine the inaugural release of that style. www.walnutblockwines.co.nz
