The wines of delta vineyards, marlborough, new zealand

The wines of Delta Vineyards
Pinot Noir specialist from New Zealand's Marlborough region

Delta Vineyards is a collaboration between winemaker Matt Thomson (who consults with several wineries in New Zealand, including Saint Clair and Mud House), and David Gleave (the man behind the dynamic UK importer/distributor Liberty Wines). David and Matt have worked closely on a number of projects in Italy, where Matt returns each year to make wine. Two other partners are also involved.

The vineyard was planted in 2001 and 2002, and the predominantly clay soils, which are low vigour, are planted with Dijon clones. In the winery open-top fermenters with hand plunging are employed, and only a little new oak is used. While the focus is clearly on Pinot Noir, a Sauvignon Blanc is also made.

There’s a really useful website that tells more of the story. I tried these wines on two separate occasions and came away impressed. The wines show good purity and focus, and they offer value for money.

Delta Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2006 Marlborough
Lemony, grassy, minerally edge to the nose, which is focused and fresh. The palate is brilliantly focused with good acidity. It’s a delicious Sauvignon with nice complexity and a mineral kick. 91/100 (Ł9.95)

Delta Vineyard Pinot Noir 2005 Marlborough
Stylish dark cherry fruit on the nose, which is sweet and pure. The palate is dominated by vivid fruit and an attractive spiciness. Sophisticated stuff. 91/100 (Ł9.95)

Delta Vineyard Hatters Hill Pinot Noir 2004 Marlborough
Smooth, meaty and ripe on the nose. The palate is fresh and spicy with lovely forward, elegant fruit, coupled with good acid and tannic structure. Bold and quite refined. 92/100 (Ł13.99)

(Tasted 02/07)

Delta Vineyard Hatters Hill Pinot Noir 2004 Marlborough
Smooth, sweet, bright nose with warm cherryish fruit. Quite focused on the palate with nice cherry and berry fruit. Rounded and smooth. Quite vibrant and beginning to evolve nicely. 89/100

Delta Vineyard Hatters Hill Pinot Noir 2005 Marlborough
Nice smooth berry fruit here. Quite vibrant with good acidity. Pure and focused with nice freshness. 90/100

Delta Vineyard Hatters Hill Pinot Noir 2006 Marlborough
Vibrant cherry fruit dominates, with a nice dark spiciness. The juicy palate has a bit of earthy depth to it. This is really impressive. 91/100

(Tasted 11/07)