Spy Valley - Marlborough New Zealand
Accolades 2010
Here are our accolades, reviews and awards for 2010.
Blue Gold Award - Top 100, Spy Valley 2009 Riesling Sydney International Wine Competition 2011, December 2010
The Spy Valley 2009 Riesling was awarded a Blue-Gold award and in the top 100 wines at the Sydney International Wine Awards 2011.
Blue Gold Award - Top 100, Spy Valley 2009 Gewurztraminer Sydney International Wine Competition 2011, December 2010
The Spy Valley 2009 Gewurztraminer was awarded a Blue-Gold award and in the top 100 wines at the Sydney International Wine Awards 2011.
4 stars, 86 points - Spy Valley 2010 Sauvignon Blanc www.bobswinereviews.com, December 2010
4 stars, 86 points “Delicately luscious sweet fruit and soft acidity are a backbone for gentle flavours suggesting red capsicum, passion fruit and tree fruits. Succulent and appealing wine.” Bob Campbell MW, www.bobswinereviews.com
Silver Medal - Spy Valley 2010 Sauvignon Blanc Hong Kong International Wine & Spirit Competition 2010, December 2010
The Spy Valley 2010 Sauvignon Blanc was awarded a silver medal at the Hong Kong International Wine & Spirit Competition 2010
It's gorgeous - Spy Valley 2009 Gewurztraminer The Pick of the Bunch, Festive Food & Wine, December 2010
“Do you think they could bottle this in an atomizer so that I can spray it behind my ears and elbows? Allspice, lychee and ginger aromas, fleshed out with rose petal and peach notes that lead to incredible concentration of flavour, weight, interest, sweetness, pungency and vibrancy – what else can I say? It’s gorgeous.” Yvonne Lorkin, The Pick of the Bunch, Festive Food & Wine, December 2010
4.5 stars, 91 points - Spy Valley 2009 Riesling Wine Orbit Issue 12, Oct 2010, December 2010
4.5 stars, 91 points “This is fine and delicate yet shows lovely intense juicy flavours. Another beautifully crafted Riesling from this outstanding producer, displaying lime zest, flint, mandarin and floral characters on the nose. The palate is vibrant and racy with subtle sweetness (12 g/l) and bright acidity. The wine is tightly structured and lengthy with plenty of appealing flavours. At its best: now to 2015.” Wine Orbit Issue12, Oct 2010.
Spy Valley Envoy 2009 Pinot Gris Taste Magazine, November 2010
“An initial impression of sweet stewed apple and pear is modified by fine tannins to give a rather drier finish that shows a little clove / spice finish.” Taste Magazine, November 2010
Go Gewurz ! Spy Valley 2009 Gewurztraminer New Zealand Herald, November 2010
“It’s great to see our gewurz getting international gongs and this elegant, pure example struck gold. Redolent of the variety’s classic rosewater and lychee characters and infused with cumin and coriander spice, it’s oily, textured with a fresh burst of grapefruit on the finish.” New Zealand Herald, 27th October 2010
Charming - Satellite 2010 Sauvignon Blanc Air New Zealand Wine Awards 2010, November 2010
Charming and beautifully poised with dried herb, citrus and subtle flinty notes combined with a concentrated palate. Air New Zealand Wine Awards, Nov 2010
Pure Gold Medal - Satellite Sauvignon Blanc 2010 Air New Zealand Wine Awards 2010, November 2010
The Satellite 2010 Sauvignon Blanc was awarded a Pure Gold Medal at the Air New Zealand Wine Awards 2010.
Pure Silver Medal - Spy Valley 2010 Sauvignon Blanc Air New Zealand Wine Awards 2010, November 2010
The Spy Valley 2010 Sauvignon Blanc was awarded a Pure Silver Medal at the Air New Zealand Wine Awards 2010.
Pure Silver Medal - Spy Valley 2010 Pinot Gris Air New Zealand Wine Awards 2010, November 2010
The Spy Valley 2010 Pinot Gris was awarded a Pure Silver Medal at the Air New Zealand Wine Awards 2010.
4 1/2 stars - Spy Valley Chardonnay 2008 Wine Orbit Issue 9 November 2010, November 2010
4 1/2 stars, 91 points, “It's ripe and immediately appealing on the nose displaying white peach, mango and subtle creamy oak characters. The palate shows ample fruit, silky texture and beautifully balanced acidity. The wine is juicy and supple with a lovely refreshing finish. At its best: now to 2012.” Wine Orbit, Issue 9, November 2010
4 stars - 87 points Spy Valley 2008 Pinot Noir Wine Orbit Issue 9 November 2010, November 2010
4 stars, 87 points, “It's youthful and freshly perfumed on the nose displaying red cherry, raspberry and thyme characters. The palate is juicy and refreshing with bright acidity and fine tannins. A well balanced and framed Pinot showing plenty of appeal. At its best: now to 2012.” Wine Orbit, Issue 9, November 2010.
Aromas of melon, 2010 Pinot Gris Wine NZ, October 2010
“Aromas of melon with tight, juicy citrus and mineral fruit characters. Ripe fruited yet reasonably dry and showing some nice complexity with maybe a touch of nutty oak too. Nice mouth feel with medium long finish.” WineNZ Magazine, Spring 2010
Bright and vibrant - Merlot / Malbec 2008 Wine NZ, October 2010
“Lots of violet and floral notes on the nose. Palate is bright and vibrant, lifted by pretty violet characters then filled out with savoury Merlot. Quite youthful and primary yet oak is well integrated. Tannins are firm and youthful.” WineNZ Magazine, Spring 2010
Gold Medal and Best in Class - Spy Valley 2009 Gewurztraminer International Wines & Spirits Competition 2010, October 2010
The Spy Valley 2009 Gewurztraminer ws awarded a Gold Medal and Best in Class at the International Wines & Spirits Competition 2010
Silver Medal - SV 2009 Riesling International Wines & Spirits Competition 2010, October 2010
The Spy Valley 2009 Riesling was awarded a silver medal at the International Wines & Spirits Competition 2010
Silver Medal - Spy Valley 2010 Pinot Gris International Wines & Spirits Competition 2010, October 2010
The Spy Valley 2010 Pinot Gris was awarded a silver medal at the International Wines & Spirits Competition 2010
Silver Medal - Spy Valley 2009 Pinot Noir International Wines & Spirits Competition 2010, October 2010
The Spy Valley 2009 Pinot Noir was awarded a silver medal at the International Wines & Spirits Competition 2010
GOLD - Spy Valley 09 Sauvignon Blanc Intervin Wine Competition, October 2010
The Spy Valley 2009 Sauvignon Blanc was awarded a Gold medal at the 2010 Intervin Wine Competition in Canada.
GOLD - Spy Valley 2010 Pinot Gris Intervin Wine Competition, October 2010
The Spy Valley 2010 Pinot Gris was awarded a Gold medal at the 2010 Intervin Wine Competition in Canada.
GOLD - Spy Valley 2009 Gewurztraminer Intervin Wine Competition, October 2010
The Spy Valley 2009 Gewurztraminer was awarded a Gold medal at the 2010 Intervin Wine Competition in Canada.
5 Stars and Top 10 Wine - Spy Valley 2009 Pinot Noir Cuisine, November 2010, October 2010
“Right from the beginning, the Pinot vines at this Waihopai Valley winery have revelled in their situation. The wine has consistently delivered excellence at a good price. This latest rendition is classic New World Pinot, “compact, bright and taut, with fine, cedary tannins” noted Jeff Clark.” Cuisine Magazine, Issue 143, November 2010
4 stars - 87points, Spy Valley 2010 Pinot Gris Bob Campbell Wine Reviews, September 2010
4 stars, 87 points “Quite a deep colour for such a young wine suggesting plenty of skin contact. The palate does show some drying tannins but remains fairly silken. Stone fruit, toast and subtle spice characters. Good value at this price. “Bob Campbell MW, www.bobswinereviews.com
4 stars - 87points, Spy Valley 2009 Pinot Noir Bob Campbell Wine Reviews, September 2010
4 stars, 87 points “Moderately intense Pinot Noir with plenty of weight and plum/dark cherry flavours. Silken smooth with a reasonably lengthy finish. Solid varietal wine that delivers plenty for the price.” Bob Campbell MW, www.bobswinereviews.com
5 stars, 93 points, Spy Valley Envoy 2009 Sauvignon Blanc Bob Campbell Wine Reviews, September 2010
5 stars, 93 points “A rich, powerful Sauvignon Blanc with strong mineral, gooseberry and lemon grass flavours. Impressive ethereal texture and lengthy finish.” Bob Campbell MW, www.bobswinereviews.com
4 stars, 90 points - Spy Valley Envoy 2009 Pinot Gris Bob Campbell Wine Reviews, September 2010
4 stars, 90 points “An initial impression of sweet stewed apple and pear is modified by fine tannins to give a rather dryer finish that shows a little clove/spice character. Concentrated and complex Pinot Gris.” Bob Campbell MW, www.bobswinereviews.com
Gold medal - Spy Valley 2008 Chardonnay New Zealand International Wine Awards 2010, September 2010
The Spy Valley 2008 Chardonnay was awarded a Gold Medal at the New Zealand International Wine Awards 2010.
Silver Medal - Spy Valley 2009 Riesling New Zealand International Wine Awards 2010, September 2010
The Spy Valley 2009 Riesling was awarded a Silver Medal at the New Zealand International Wine Awards 2010.
Silver Medal - Spy Valley Pinot Gris 2010 New Zealand International Wine Awards 2010, September 2010
The Spy Valley 2010 Pinot Gris was awarded a Silver Medal at the New Zealand International Wine Awards 2010.
Gold medal and Top 50 - Spy Valley Riesling 2009 New World Wine Awards 2010, September 2010
The Spy Valley Riesling was awarded a Gold Medal and selected in the Top 50 wines at the New World Wine Awards 2010. “Balance, complexity, purity of fruit and intense concentration, this wine has it all. This wine cries out to be matched with freshly steamed cockles.”
Gold medal and Top 50 - Spy Valley Gewurztraminer 2009 New World Wine Awards 2010, September 2010
The Spy Valley 2009 Gewurztraminer was awarded a Gold Medal and selected in the Top 50 wines at the New World Wine Awards 2010. “Exotic aromas of rosewater, Turkish delight and citrus peel lead into a textural palate which is rich, concentrated and powerful. This variety compliments Thai seafood dishes.”
Silver Medal for the Spy Valley Pinot Noir 2009 Japan Wine Challenge 2010, August 2010
The Spy Valley Pinot Noir 2009 was awarded a silver medal at the Japan Wine Challenge 2010
Silver Medal for the Spy Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Japan Wine Challenge 2010, August 2010
The Spy Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2009 was awarded a silver medal at the Japan Wine Challenge 2010
4 Stars - 09 Envoy Sauvignon Blanc Jane Skilton, Sunday Star Times (August 8, 2010), August 2010
A bottle of Spy Valley's Envoy Sauvignon Blanc was equally delicious; not nearly as pungent as a typical Marlborough sauvignon but with bags of personality and flavour.
Drinking very well now - Spy Valley 2009 Riesling Foodtown Magazine, August 2010
We all liked this wine and its quirky label design. Relatively full-bodied, with lots of citrus and stone fruit flavours, there is just a touch of sweetness. Drinking very well now. The Foodtown magazine, Aug / Sept 2010
3 stars - Envoy 2007 Chardonnay Decanter Magazine, August 2010
3 stars - French toast and citrus nose. Hints of herbs and minerals. Fresh, steely acidity leads to a strong finish. From 2010. Decanter magazine, June 2010.
4 stars - Spy Valley 2008 Merlot / Malbec Cusine Magazine, August 2010
Spy Valley’s take on Merlot Malbec is a fruity wine of warmth and presence with redcurrant and plum aromas, touched by mocha oak. It was a little to leafy for one taster, but the others liked its balance and intensity, and the savoury chalk tannins that support the palate. Try it alongside minute steak with fine herbs. Cuisine Magazine, Issue 142, September 2010
5 stars, 94 points - Spy Valley 2009 Gewurztraminer Wine Orbit, August 2010
“If anyone is not convinced that Gewurztraminer is the most enchanting aromatic grape, they need to try this beauty. The nose is beautifully perfumed displaying tropical fruit, floral, mandarin and subtle spice characters. It’s succulent and silky smooth on the palate showing subtle sweetness (13.9 g/L) and an opulent mouthfeel which is perfectly balanced by the refreshing acidity. The gorgeous flavours lingers on and on. At its best: now to 2013." Wine Orbit, June 2010
Winophilia picks Spy Valley Envoy 2007 Riesling www.winophilia.com, August 2010
Why should you care? New Zealand’s ocean-influenced climate—markedly cooler than that of its neighbor Australia—is ideal for the production of wines with intense fruit and crisp acidity. White wines, especially sauvignon blanc from Marlborough, dominate exports to the U.S. But the country’s rieslings are also varietally accurate and delicious. In spite of their normally brisk acidity, they are rarely austere or difficult to enjoy in their youth; in fact, many of these wines are softened by some residual sugar. Spy Valley’s wines are flamboyantly supple, fruit-driven and user-friendly.
What does it taste like? Spy Valley’s premium Envoy range comes from specific vineyard sites within the greater family estate. Their 2007 riesling, made from Germanic clones, is in a silky, sweeter style (think German spätlese) but with perfect balancing acidity. It offers the distinctly fusel quality shown by many top rieslings from Germany, Australia and elsewhere, along with concentrated apricot and passion fruit flavors, exotic brown spices and a suggestion of honeyed richness. This compellingly pure and immediately appealing wine makes a perfect aperitif—or try it with fresh scallops or sweet and sour Asian dishes. Stephen Tanzer, www.winophilia.com, 23 August 2010.
What does it taste like? Spy Valley’s premium Envoy range comes from specific vineyard sites within the greater family estate. Their 2007 riesling, made from Germanic clones, is in a silky, sweeter style (think German spätlese) but with perfect balancing acidity. It offers the distinctly fusel quality shown by many top rieslings from Germany, Australia and elsewhere, along with concentrated apricot and passion fruit flavors, exotic brown spices and a suggestion of honeyed richness. This compellingly pure and immediately appealing wine makes a perfect aperitif—or try it with fresh scallops or sweet and sour Asian dishes. Stephen Tanzer, www.winophilia.com, 23 August 2010.
Judge's Choice - Spy Valley 2009 Sauvignon Blanc International Value Wine Awards 2010, July 2010
The Spy Valley 2009 Sauvignon Blanc was awarded the Judge's Choice at the Wine Access International Value Wine Awards 2010 in Canada.
Judge's Choice - Spy Valley 2009 Riesling International Value Wine Awards 2010, July 2010
The Spy Valley 2009 Riesling was awarded the Judge's Choice at the Wine Access International Value Wine Awards 2010 in Canada.
Judge's Choice - Spy Valley 2009 Pinot Noir International Value Wine Awards 2010, July 2010
The Spy Valley 2009 Pinot Noir was awarded the Judge's Choice at the Wine Access International Value Wine Awards 2010 in Canada.
Category Champion - Spy Valley 2009 Pinot Gris International Value Wine Awards 2010, July 2010
The Spy Valley 2009 Pinot Gris was awarded the Category Champion at the Wine Access International Value Wine Awards 2010 in Canada.
Menu Matching with Spy Valley 2009 Riesling Hospitality | Thirst magazine, July 2010
Nose: Generous fruit and floral messages with sweet grapefruit and light ginger spice. As the wine opens up the characters described deepen and soften becoming more inviting and complex. Palate: Dry with green apple flavours and warm citrus flavours. The light body and deepening palate characters show off a well-balanced and well-made wine.
Food Match: Pad Thai with tofu and prawns. Often served with fresh lemon this is a must for this match. Lose the peanuts though in favour of fresh spring onion or chestnut slices.
Menu Matching with Cameron Douglas. Hospitality July 2010.
Food Match: Pad Thai with tofu and prawns. Often served with fresh lemon this is a must for this match. Lose the peanuts though in favour of fresh spring onion or chestnut slices.
Menu Matching with Cameron Douglas. Hospitality July 2010.
A hearty and gutsy wine - Spy Valley Chardonnay 2008 Hospitality | Thirst magazine, June 2010
“Opening up very well, a hearty and gusty wine with good spine and some quite generous fruit unfolding up perfectly. A bold style, best with dinner or early courses and a fine Marlborough statement, which is dry, accessible and yet in no hurry – into 2010. Hospitality |Thirst magazine, June 2010.”
Silver Medal - Spy Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Liquorland International Wine Competition 2010, June 2010
Silver Medal & Top 100 - Spy Valley Chardonnay 2008 Liquorland International Wine Competition 2010, June 2010
Silver Medal - Spy Valley Merlot / Malbec 2008 Liquorland International Wine Competition 2010, June 2010
4 stars - 86 points Spy Valley 2007 Chardonnay Wine Orbit Issue 7 June 2010, June 2010
This wine shows friendly style and appeal with its ripe apricot, apple and nutty characters on the nose. The palate is medium-weighted and nicely textured with refreshing acidity and a juicy finish. A very pleasing Chardonnay with ample fruit. At its best: now to 2011. Wine Orbit Issue 7 June 2010
4 1/2 stars, 90 points. Spy Valley 2007 Pinot Noir Wine Orbit Issue 7 June 2010, June 2010
A richly scented nose displaying dark plum, spice and savoury mushroom characters. The palate is generous and rounded with silky texture and supple tannins. It's refreshing and immediately appealing. Very delicious. At its best: now to 2011. Wine Orbit Issue 7 June 2010
Powerful and lush - Spy Valley Pinot Noir 2009 Wine NZ, June 2010
Big, blackberry aromas. Powerful and lush in the mouth with big dark fruits and lots of oak. Blackberry, chewy and textural, dense but not too sweet. Plenty of round tannins. Wine NZ magazine, Winter 2010
4 1/2 stars, Spy Valley 2009 Pinot Noir Wine Estate magazine, June 2010
4 1/2 stars. Weighty, rich and supple, this is a very elegant and youthful red. Full ruby, with a floral, scented bouquet, it is muscular (14.5% alc/vol) but not heavy, with sweet-fruit delights and concentrated, vibrant cherry/plum flavours. Finely textured, with obvious potential, it’s best opened mid-2011+. Michael Cooper, Wine Estate magazine July 2010
4 stars - Spy Valley 2009 Pinot Gris Tizwine.com, June 2010
4 stars - The lifted aromatic aromas are followed by peaches and pears in abundance. These are enhanced by the good structure and oily texture creating great weight in the palate. Generous and lengthy finish. Tizwine.com June 2010
4 1/2 stars - Spy Valley Gewurztraminer 2009 Tizwine.com, June 2010
4 1/2 stars - Excellent now but will also improve for a little more cellaring. The turkish delight aromas prepare the way for more turkish in the palate but with added elements marmalade, ginger and spice. Acidity is just a little tart but that will dissipate in the coming months. Thoroughly recommended. Tizwine.com June 2010
A true flavour bonanza - Spy Valley Gewurztraminer 2009 salient.org.nz, May 2010
“This week’s wine of the week is the Spy Valley Marlborough Gewurztraminer 2009, which has cleaned up a few awards recently. Spy Valley has been producing under its current name since 2000, and the winery is situated in Marlborough’s Wairau Valley near the now infamous ‘spy base’ that was shredded with sickles last year.
The 2009 Gewurztraminer is made in a fruit-driven style, which reflects delicious aromas of rose petals, Turkish delight and lychee. These particular aromas are enhanced by a ginger spiciness that gives the wine uplifting warmth.
Spicy citrus flavours coupled with lip-smacking satisfying mouth feel make this wine a true flavor bonanza, with extremely well balanced structure and finish. It really is hard to believe this wine retails around the $20 mark. A true bargain.
This wine would go really well with smoked salmon, a chicken Thai green curry, or jam on toast. www.salient.org.nz 10th May 2010
The 2009 Gewurztraminer is made in a fruit-driven style, which reflects delicious aromas of rose petals, Turkish delight and lychee. These particular aromas are enhanced by a ginger spiciness that gives the wine uplifting warmth.
Spicy citrus flavours coupled with lip-smacking satisfying mouth feel make this wine a true flavor bonanza, with extremely well balanced structure and finish. It really is hard to believe this wine retails around the $20 mark. A true bargain.
This wine would go really well with smoked salmon, a chicken Thai green curry, or jam on toast. www.salient.org.nz 10th May 2010
Racy and fresh - Spy Valley 2008 Pinot Noir The Tasting Panel, May 2010
“Racy and fresh; long and bright with keen cherry flavours and lovely fruit. 89 points” The tasting panel, May 2010
Top of the Line - Envoy 2007 Chardonnay Hi Society Magazine, May 2010
“Top of the line Chardonnay from Spy Valley. Spicy oak influence from 18 months in the barrel. Rich flavours of lime, lemon, apple and hazelnut.” Phil Parker, Hi Society Magazine, April 2010
Perfect Wedding Wine - Spy Valley 2009 Sauvignon Blanc Wall Street Journal, May 2010
“The Marlborough region of New Zealand has become justly famous (thanks first to the legendary Cloudy bay) for its tangy, lively Sauvignon Blanc, and this is a good example of the Marlborough style at a very attractive price; it’s a perfect wedding aperitif.” The Wall Street Journal 21 May 2010
4 stars - Envoy Dry Riesling 2008 Otago Daily Times, May 2010
“Unusually for a riesling, this has been fermented in large, old barrels which brings a faint hint of nuts and toffee and a firm, textural mouthfeel to the lime and tropical fruit flavour and crisp, tingly finish. 4 stars (out of 5). Otago Daily Times 31st May 2010
The perfect aperitif - 2008 Envoy Riesling Sunday Star Times, May 2010
4 1/2 stars “Made by Spy Valley, this is a pure expression of Riesling, off dry, delicate and totally delicious. The perfect aperitif.” Jane Skilton, Sunday Star Times, 30th May 2010
Mouthfilling but elegant - Echelon 2007 Otago Daily Times, April 2010
Spy Valley 2007 Echelon
"A faint blush of dull pink colours this bubbly made from the traditional blend of pinot noir and chardonnay. It hints of berries, toasted hazelnuts and freshly baked bread, is mouthfiling but elegant and has a satisfying, savoury finish." Otago Daily Times, Charmian Smith, 7 April 2010
Seductive charm - Spy Valley Noble Chardonnay 2009 Otago Daily Times, April 2010
Spy Valley Noble Chardonnay 2009
"This sweet wine has all the seductive charm and fragrance of a freshly picked, tree-ripened peach, with hints of honeysuckle, orange and tropical fruit, and a lively suggestion of lemon on the nicely balanced finish. Try with poached peaches or pears with vanilla and orange blossom water." Otago Daily Times, Charmian Smith, 7 April 2010
Fragrant with fresh guava - Noble Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Otago Daily Times, April 2010
Spy Valley Noble Sauvignon Blanc 2009
"Fragrant with fresh guava, green fruits and dusty gravel, this sweet wine has the herby, capsicum character and crisp green flavour of Marlborough sauvignon, but also an intense sweetness, silky texture and clean finish. Just the thing to go with an aged cheddar." Otago Daily Times, Charmian Smith, 7 April 2010
Envoy Riesling 2007 - Top 10 New Zealand Rieslings Taste magazine, April 2010
Spy Valley Envoy Riesling 2007
# 10 "Moderately sweet riesling with enough acidity to give a medium/dry finish. Powerful lime juice, rose petal and slate/mineral characters with good weight and an impressive length." Bob Campbell MW, Taste magazine, April 2010
Seductive and interesting - Spy Valley Noble Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Hospitality magazine, April 2010
Spy Valley Noble Sauvignon Blanc 2009
"Nose: Marmalade, beeswax, honey and intense tropical aromas - seductive and interesting.
Palate: Creamy textures and sweet with the hidden acidity showing a careful balance and richness. Passion-fruit and other tropical flavours persist into an extended finish.
Food match: Peach slices pan seared in brown sugar and then tossed with small wedges of goats blue cheese. Warm cream-anglaise on the side to dress this salad when needed."
Cameron Douglas, Hospitality, April 2010
"Nose: Marmalade, beeswax, honey and intense tropical aromas - seductive and interesting.
Palate: Creamy textures and sweet with the hidden acidity showing a careful balance and richness. Passion-fruit and other tropical flavours persist into an extended finish.
Food match: Peach slices pan seared in brown sugar and then tossed with small wedges of goats blue cheese. Warm cream-anglaise on the side to dress this salad when needed."
Cameron Douglas, Hospitality, April 2010
Verdict: Fantastic - Noble Sauvignon 09 NZ Wine Blogger, April 2010
“Verdict: fantastic. The Spy Valley Late Harvest Savvy was a treat – rich flavours of passion fruit, lychee, ripe pineapple and cape gooseberry jam, with a subtle crisp acidity on the finish. A really perfect match for the stronger cheeses.” Phil Parker, NZ Wine Blogger 15 April 2010
Luscious little number - Envoy Riesling 2008 mindfood.com, April 2010
Spy Valley Envoy Riesling 08, Wines of the Week.
“I have a fantasy vineyard dedicated to Riesling, part of the dream being that people fall head over heels for the wine I make from this vineyard. Needless to say, this top wine of Spy Valley in Marlborough isn’t made from my fantasy vineyard, but if it were I imagine it might taste similar to this luscious little number.
It’s the second year in a row that Spy Valley in Marlborough has made the Envoy Riesling, which is all limes and green apples, and freshly citrus in taste, this wine is worth it.” Joelle Thomson, Mindfood.com 9 October 2009
Chardonnay 2008 - 4 stars Cuisine May 2008, April 2010
4 stars fron Cuisine. “Like quite a few of us, this wine is bright but not rich. A citrusy vibrancy runs through it, the oak forms a subtle backdrop; a velvety texture supplies comfort and warmth. It would suit a Japanese dish, such as prawn teriyaki.” Cuisine Issue 140 May 2010
Spy Valley 2008 Sauvignon Blancs to Savour The Georgia Straight, April 2010
Spy Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2008 “We liked this quite a bit when it first hit town about a year ago and we’re still liking it, with those ubiquitous gooseberries front and centre. Label speak alerts us to more passion – and grapefruit as well as “sweet pea”, which was new to those tasting. Why not? Nice and dry, tart but not overwhelmingly though, with lots of guts to stand up to vegetable dishes, cream sauces for fish, and olive oil poached chicken.” The Georgia Straight, April 15 -22nd 2010
Serious Sauvignons, Spy Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Wine NZ, April 2010
“Ripe, sweet fruit notes on the nose and on the palate. There’s juicy Meyer lemon and sweet herbs – really nice. Shows good concentration and very good balance between alcohol and fine grained acidity.” Wine NZ, Autumn 2010
Well recommended - Spy Valley 2008 Pinot Noir Wine NZ, April 2010
“Nicely clean and alive, very accessible with excellent fruit base and lots of youthful spine to ensure plenty of development ahead. A wine which shows the potential of this Waihopai sub-region of Marlborough for vibrant, characterful fruit tones. Will work well and develop further over the next three years.” Wine NZ, Autumn 2010
A killer little Pinot - Spy Valley 2008 Pinot Noir Vancouversun.com, April 2010
“The Spy Valley Pinot Noir 2008 is a killer little Pinot that is too delicious and too affordable to be listed in BC Liquor stores, but is being poured at the Playhouse International Wine Festival this week. Its 25-per-cent new wood does little to interfere with its bright mineral fruit, fresh acidity and finesse. Looks like Pinot, smells like Pinot, tastes like Pinot. All natural winemaking and it shows, Incredible value.” www.vancouversun.com 27th April 2010
Best Under $20, 4 Stars - SV Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Otago Daily Times, March 2010
Best Under $20, 4 Stars - Spy Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2009
"A punchy, fruit salad wine, oozing juicy mango, ripe pineapple, grapefruit, passionfruit and guava, but all supported by a well-balanced, crisp, assertive, dryish finish. Typical, full on Marlborough style. Good value." Charmian Smith, Otago Daily Times, 3 March 2010
4 1/2 Stars - Spy Valley 2008 Pinot Noir Winestate Magazine, March 2010
Spy Valley 2008 Pinot Noir
4 1/2 Stars
"Very elegant, finely poised wine, full-bodied, with fresh, vibrant cherry, plum and spice flavours, seasoned with smoky, toasty oak, and impressive density." Winestate magazine, Marlborough Regional Tasting, March/April 2010
Gold Medal - 2009 Sauvignon Blanc Korea Wine Challenge 2010, March 2010
Spy Valley 2009 Sauvignon Blanc was awarded a Gold Medal at the Korea Wine Challenge, the only Sauvignon Blanc to win gold.
90 Points - Wine Spectator - SV Gewurztraminer 2009! Wine Spectator, March 2010
Spy Valley 2009 Gewurztraminer was awarded 90 Points in Wine Spectator! April 2010
There's no mistaking this fresh and affordable example - 2009 Noble Sauv Viva, The NZ Herald, March 2010
Spy Valley Noble Sauvignon Blanc 2009
"While quite a lot of the growing array of sweet savs can lack varietal character, there's no mistaking this fresh and affordable example with its tropical notes of passionfruit and mango and herbal undertones. Try with a Thai curry for a superb synergy between sweetness and heat."
Jo Burzynska, VIVA - NZ Herald, 24 March 2010
"While quite a lot of the growing array of sweet savs can lack varietal character, there's no mistaking this fresh and affordable example with its tropical notes of passionfruit and mango and herbal undertones. Try with a Thai curry for a superb synergy between sweetness and heat."
Jo Burzynska, VIVA - NZ Herald, 24 March 2010
90 Points - Riesling 2009 Dan Berger's Vintage Experiences, March 2010
Spy Valley Riesling 2009
90 Points
"Fabulous aromas of jasmine, delicate tropical notes (passion fruit?), wild lavendar, and the faintest hint of petroleum. Slightly sweet entry, but great acidity that makes the wine barely off-dry, and should allow it to work with numerous Asian foods. A classic New Zealand style wine imported by Broadbent Selections." Dan Berger, Dan Berger's Vintage Experiences, 25 March 2010
90 Points
"Fabulous aromas of jasmine, delicate tropical notes (passion fruit?), wild lavendar, and the faintest hint of petroleum. Slightly sweet entry, but great acidity that makes the wine barely off-dry, and should allow it to work with numerous Asian foods. A classic New Zealand style wine imported by Broadbent Selections." Dan Berger, Dan Berger's Vintage Experiences, 25 March 2010
Matthew Jukes 60 Best NZ Wines 2010 - Spy Gewurz 09 Matthew Jukes 60 Best NZ Wines 2010, February 2010
Spy Valley Gewurztraminer 2009 was listed as one of Matthew Jukes' 60 Best New Zealand Wines in his 2010 edition - www.matthewjukes.com
4 1/2 Stars - Spy Valley Gewurztraminer 2009 Bay of Plenty Times, February 2010
4 1/2 Stars
"Wow. Ginger, lychee, nectarine, roses, a veritable pot pourri of perfumed perfection. Bursting with tropical lusciousness, clean, slicing acidity and rich, textural length of flavour. A must if you're contemplating spicy pork panang or prawn stir-fry." Yvonne Lorkin, Bay of Plenty Times, 8 February 2010
Top Business Class Red Wine - Spy Valley Pinot Noir 2007 2009 Business Traveller Cellars in the Sky Awards, February 2010
Spy Valley Pinot Noir 2007 was awarded Top Business Class Red Wine in the 2009 Business Traveller Cellars in the Sky Awards! Listed on Cathay Pacific's wine list, it won out over 64 airlines worldwide!
GOLD - Pinot Gris 2009 Dallas Morning News Wine Competition 2010, February 2010
Spy Valley Pinot Gris 2009 was awarded a gold medal at the Dallas Morning News Wine Competition 2010
Silver medal - 2009 SV Riesling Dallas Morning News Wine Competition 2010, February 2010
Spy Valley Riesling 2009 was awarded a silver medal at the Dallas Morning News Wine Competition 2010
4 Stars - SV Chardonnay 2008 Otago Daily Times, February 2010
4 Stars - Spy Valley Chardonnay 2008. "Fragrant with hints of grapefruit and smoky oak, and suggestions of melon, spice and oatmeal, this is a stylish, zesty wine, with understated oak and a bright tingly aftertaste." Charmian Smith, Otago Daily Times, 17 February 2010
5 Stars, Top 5 Wine & Best Buy! Spy Valley Gewurztraminer 2009 Cuisine magazine, February 2010
Spy Valley Gewurztraminer 2009
5 Stars, Top 5 wine, Best Buy!
"This is a succulent, generous wine from a winery that has forged a strong aromatics track record. The fascinating flavour spectrum includes spice - 'cardamom, almost into tumeric", said Anna Flowerday - together with guava and fig notes. A very complete Gewurz." Issue 139, March 2010
See page 119 of Cusine, March 2010, for Cuisine's food match - Asian-Style Roast Chicken with Cucumber Salad, teamed with Spy Valley Gewurztraminer 2009
4 Stars - Spy Valley Pinot Gris 2009 Cuisine magazine, February 2010
Spy Valley Pinot Gris 2009
4 Stars
"An overt honey-puff scent signals the rich, interesting taste experience that is in store. Botrytis (noble rot) makes a strong contribution to this toasty, apricot-flavoured, focused wine. The inviting softness and warmth conjure thoughts of colder evenings and classic French onion soup."
4 Stars
"An overt honey-puff scent signals the rich, interesting taste experience that is in store. Botrytis (noble rot) makes a strong contribution to this toasty, apricot-flavoured, focused wine. The inviting softness and warmth conjure thoughts of colder evenings and classic French onion soup."
91 Points - Wine Spectator - 2009 Sauvignon Blanc! Wine Spectator, February 2010
Spy Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2009 was awarded 91 Points in Wine Spectator's March edition!
"This is bright, lively and distinctive for its apricot, lime and tangerine flavors, which zip nicely through the long, vibrant finish. Drink now." H.S., Wine Spectator, March 2010
4 Stars & Best Value - Spy Valley Gewurz 2009 Otago Daily Times, February 2010
4 Stars, Best Value
Spy Valley Gewurztraminer 2009
"A powerful, full-on style from this reliable producer. It's fragrant with hints of eau de cologne, mint and roses, oozing tropical fruit - lychees and mangoes, but with a savoury undertone, and a rich, mouthfilling finish. Delicious." Charmian Smith, Otago Daily Times, 24 February 2010
2009 Year's Best - New Zealand Pinot Noir Wine & Spirits magazine, January 2010
Spy Valley 2008 Pinot Noir was awarded 2009 Year's Best - New Zealand Pinot Noir and 93 Points in the February 2010 edition of Wine & Spirits magazine!
"Their 2008 achieved a level of refinement, concentration and transparency that is rare in Marlborough pinot noir. It contrasts bright fruit scents of raspberry and firm, mineral-infused tannin, all punctuated by fresh acidity. The wine is supple, complete, lasting with a red glow."
Beautifully counterpoised - Envoy Riesling 2007 Viva, The NZ Herald, January 2010
"Although arguably on the of the less aromatic varieties, when it comes to the dizzying heights in quality that can be reached by the best, riesling is still king of this category. Made in a wide variety of styles, this one from Spy Valley's top Envoy range, may clock in at a modest 9 per cent alcohol, but has an abundance of flavour in its rich, slaty, spicy and slightly honeyed palate in which its not inconsiderable sweetness is beauitfully counterpoised with a fresh limey acid." Jo Burzynska, VIVA, 13 January 2010
4 1/2 Stars - Best Wines of 2009 - Pinot Gris 09 Winestate Magazine, January 2010
4 1/2 Stars
"Fragrant melon and perfumed passionfruit bouquet and some intense spicy pear flavours with hints of ginger on a long, oily palate. Some sweetness. Very polished wine." Winestate's Best Wines of 2009, Annual 2010
"Fragrant melon and perfumed passionfruit bouquet and some intense spicy pear flavours with hints of ginger on a long, oily palate. Some sweetness. Very polished wine." Winestate's Best Wines of 2009, Annual 2010
4 1/2 Stars - Best Wines of 2009 - Sauvignon Blanc 09 Winestate Magazine, January 2010
4 1/2 Stars
"Stand-out wine with excellent complexity and outstanding fruit. Nice tropical lift to the nose and intense melon flavours with a grassy/herbaceous backbone and strong finish." Winestate's Best Wines of 2009, Annual 2010
"Stand-out wine with excellent complexity and outstanding fruit. Nice tropical lift to the nose and intense melon flavours with a grassy/herbaceous backbone and strong finish." Winestate's Best Wines of 2009, Annual 2010
91 Points & 4.5 stars - Spy Valley Chardonnay 2008 Wine Orbit magazine., January 2010
91 Points, 4.5 Stars, Spy Valley Chardonnay 2008
"It's ripe and immediately appealing on the nose displaying white peach, mango and subtle creamy oak characters. The palate shows ample fruit, silky texture and beautifully balanced acidity. The wine is juicy and supple with a lovely refreshing finish." Sam Kim, Issue 9 2010
5 Stars, 94 Points! Spy Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Wine Orbit magazine, January 2010
5 Stars, 94 Points! Spy Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2009.
"It's ripe and invite on the nose displaying stonefruit, passionfruit and herbaceous characters. The palate is zesty and full-flavoured with a nicely textured mid palate, well integrated acidity and a lingering fruity finish. A gorgeous Sauvignon." Sam Kim, Issue 10 2010
Matthew Jukes 60 Best NZ Wines 2010 - Envoy Riesling 07 Matthew Jukes 60 Best NZ Wines 2010, January 2010
Spy Valley Envoy Riesling 2007 was listed as one of Matthew Jukes' 60 Best New Zealand Wines in his 2010 edition - www.matthewjukes.com
90 Points - Wine Spectator - SV Sauvignon Blanc 2009! Wine Spectator, January 2010
"I served a well-chilled bottle of Spy Valley Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2009 ($19) with the meal. The bright acidity and vibrant profile of this New Zealand white acted like a squirt of lemon juice with the crab. I loved the ripe citrus flavors of lemon and lime, and the wine did a great job of both brightening the meal and refreshing my palate between luxurious bites. I rated the wine 90 points, non-blind." MaryAnn Worobiec, winespectator.com, 24 Dec 2009