The following new release wines will be available for purchase from mid September: 08 Sauvignon Blanc, 08 Gewurztraminer, 08 Riesling, 08 Toru and 08 Pinot Gris.

Recent reviews -

2008 Toru: The Wine Wanker Blog

Where 'Te Whare Ra' literally means "House in The Sun" in Maori, New Zealand native language; and Toru means 3. This refers to the three varieties that makes up this unique, kiwi single vineyard blend: Gewürztraminer, Riesling and Pinot Gris. It is a very different wine to the two previous vintages ... read more

2007 Sauvignon Blanc: 91 points - 4 1/2 stars

Sam Kim, Wine judge of Wine Orbit, said "An attractive nose showing ripe passion fruit, feijoas and freh herbs.  It's up front and vibrant with beautifully flowing texture on the palate.  The crisp acidity balances the opulent palate and leaves it nice and clean.  At its best: now to 2010." 

2007 Sauvignon Blanc: 87 points - Neal Martin  - The Wine Advocate

2007 Toru

Jo Burzynska (NZ Herald) - Viva Magazine, said "If you can't decide between a gewurztraminer, riesling or pinot gris, or are looking for a wine with plenty of aromatics but more freshness than is often to be found in gris or Gewurz, toru could be for you.  It is harmonious and easy drinking blend of all three (toru) varieties, to which riesling brings its juicy citrus acidity and peachy fruit, gewurz gives musky notes, while pinot gris adds a sweet cinnamon spice and soft pear notes."

2007 Toru: 89 points - 4 1/2 stars

Sam Kim, Wine judge of Wine Orbit, said "The nose is gently fragrant showing fresh flowers, stone fuits and citrus with subtle spice.  The palate displays succulent fruit and zesty acidity with a touch of sweetness making this an immensely appealing wine.  The palate weight is excellent and nicely balanced.  This will be fabulous with mildly spicy Asian dishes".  At its best: now to 2009."

2007 Gewurztraminer: 92-94 points - 5 stars

Sam Kim, Wine Judge of Wine Orbit, said "An elegant nose revealing fresh flowers, mandarin and subtle spice.  The palate is unctuous showing sweet front palate (22 g/l), smooth texture and beautifully balanced acidity.   The wine is showing restraint yet is well structured and has persistence of flavour.   This will definitely benefit from further time in bottle.  At its best: now to 2011."

2007 Pinot Gris: 88 points - 4 stars

Sam Kim, Wine Judge of Wine Orbit, said "  A gentle and elegant Pinot Gris showing ripe stone fruit, pear and floral characters on the nose,  It's fresh and fruity on the palate with a whisper of sweetness (6.5 g/l), silky smooth texture through the mid range and nicely balanced acidity at the finish.  At its best: now to 2010."

2007 Riesling: 92 points - 4 1/2 stars

Sam Kim, Wine Judge of Wine Orbit, said "The nose is delicately fragrant showing floral, apple and lemon characters.  Almost spring water-like elegance.  On the palate it has subtle sweetness (6.5 g/l), fine mid range texture and a lingering finish with crisp lemony acidity.  The flavours are so delicate and precise.  A wine of true beauty and refinement.  At its best: now to 2012"

Bob Campbell (Cuisine Magazine 100th issue – Top 100 Wines) rated the Te Whare Ra Duke of Marlborough Gewürztraminer in the top 5 Gewürztraminers produced in NZ.

Michael Cooper (2004 Buyers Guide to NZ Wine) rated the Te Whare Ra Duke of Marlborough Gewürztraminer as a Potential Classic.