The premium bottlings of Greystone Wines come from their 120 ha property of which around 40 ha are planted to vines. However, Greystone has access to fruit from contracted growers to make other wines, acting as a negociant, especially for other channels of distribution and export. It’s a well-used model by many reputable producers which has the benefit of protecting the integrity of their brand.
Made by Dom Maxwell, Gourmet Traveller Wine's inaugural 'NZ Winemaker of the Year' (2018)
Nor'wester is made using hand-picked, mixed-clone fruit from contracted vineyards planted between 1998 and 2000, indigenous yeast fermented with a small proportion of whole bunches. The wine remains on skins for up to 30 days and aged 10 months in French oak barriques, 30% of them new.
"Elegant, precise, poised… bright cherry, red rose and subtle spice flavours,,, appealing purity and balance... good power and intensity."
93 Points - Bob Campbell MW
"There's an almost rose-like dusty floral note on the nose… On the palate, multi-tonal cherry fruit takes charge, delivering a pristine beam of flavour focused by crisp acids and silky tannins... attractive wisps of vanilla on the lingering finish"
92 points - Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate
"...harmonious, softly rounded… savoury red berry fruits, dried herbs, earth and nutty detail on a supple, smooth palate…"
17.5/20 points, raymondchanwinereviews.co.nz
"...combines fabulous fruit purity with seductive complexity… fragrant aromas of dark cherry, plum, smoked game, dark mushroom and black olive… beautifully weighted palate… silky and flowing… offers refinement and poise while delivering loads of delectable flavours...."
93 Points, Sam Kim, Wine Orbit
...a touch of exotic marshmallow and red licorice with a lovely ripe doris plum and black cherry fruit character. Silky tannins, plenty of concentration but retains a degree of grace. Highly attractive…
Winestate Magazine
"Elegant and sophisticated… fine lengthy finish. Very nice wine indeed."
Cameron Douglas MS