WILD ROCK WINES

This is a new collection from the Craggy Range winery in New Zealand.  The line includes: “Elevation” Sauvignon Blanc 2OO8 “Vin Gris” Rosé 2OO8 and “Cupids Arrow” Pinot Noir 2OO7.  From the Marlborough region, the Sauvignon Blanc is an innovative blend (including small amounts of Riesling and Viognier), resulting in a wine dominated by lime and floral notes, rather than the grassy characteristics typically associated with Sauvignon from this area.  The Rosé is inspired by the dry rosés from southern France and is predominately Merlot, with small amounts of Malbec, Syrah and Pinot Noir, adding spicy and cherry notes to this New World version of a traditionally made rosé.  The Pinot Noir, from vineyards in Central Otago, is 1OO% Pinot with berry, cherry and herbal notes.  Selected parcels were aged one year in French oak barrels.  Led by Master of Wine Steve Smith, the Wild Rock team is dedicated to sustainable winemaking and can source grapes from regions on both the North and South Islands.  Retail is $16.99 for the Elevation and the Vin Gris and $19.99 for the Cupids Arrow.