NZ has ‘great’ Grüner potential

New Zealand has great potential to produce stunning Grüner Veltliner according to one of the key winemakers in the country.

Tamra Washington

Speaking to the drinks business, Tamra Kelly-Washington, chief winemaker at Yealands estate, said: “New Zealand is currently experimenting and producing all sorts of styles of Grüner Veltliner from sweet to spicy. It’s got great potential in the country.”

“It’s still a very new thing for us, but interesting Gru-Vees are coming out of Marlborough where we’re based, along with Hawkes Bay and Gisbourne,” she added.

Having struck upon a north-facing block in Marlborough with great sun exposure, Kelly-Washington produced Yealands inaugural Grüner Veltliner in 2010.

“I was flying by the seat of my pants as it was very much an experiment and we only made one barrel, but it took to the vineyard very well and was low yielding and one of the last grapes to be harvested so the crop didn’t need manipulating,” she said.

“In Marlborough, Gruner offers aromas of aniseed and spice along with a lovely texture. We’re going for an elegant and pure style.

“We’ve introduced older French barrels to the wine this year as we wanted to compliment its natural richness with oak while retaining its wonderful acidity,” she added.