Which of the new Bouldevines aromatic releases is best? You decide!

All of us here at Bouldevines agree that our newly released aromatic wines from the 2011 vintage are knockout wines. What we can’t agree on is which is better – the Gewürztraminer or the Pinot Gris? Owner Philip Walsh backs one and winemaker Drew Ellis the other.

Since Philip and Janey have started growing wine on the family land in the 1970s, Philip’s special passion has been aromatic wines – none more so than his favourite, Gewürztraminer.

“It’s simply the most aromatic of all the aromatic varieties, a wine unlike any other,” says Philip. “Our Bouldevines Gewürztraminer from the 2011 vintage would rate among my all-time favourites. I like that floral bouquet, the almost oily texture... the taste stays with you. I’d expect wine lovers to really go for this one. You’d think our winemaker would agree...”

Winemaker Drew Ellis, who has been part of the Bouldevines setup since we launched our brand in 2005, reckons the Bouldevines Pinot Gris 2011 is even better.

“We replaced some of our Pinot Noir with Pinot Gris on our vineyard some years back and that turned out to be an inspired decision,” says Drew. “I’m really excited by what we got from those vines this year... the wine’s exceptional. It’s got everything you want in a Pinot Gris, intensity of fruit flavour combined with subtle spice. I think wine drinkers will love this wine even more than the Gewürz.”

The banter will continue here at Bouldevines. But fortunately you don’t have to take the word of either Bouldevines’ veteran winegrower or our award-winning winemaker on this matter. Though limited in quantity – with the Gewürztraminer verging on “exclusive” – both these wines are available for sale, so you can taste and compare them yourself!

Bouldevines Marlborough Pinot Gris 2011

Fruity and smooth, this wine has pear and apple skin aromas, with floral and spice hints. The palate presents flavours of stewed pear with a touch of spice and Granny Smith apple. The rich finish has lingering pear and spicy characters. RRP NZ$24.95

Bouldevines Marlborough Gewürztraminer 2011

This off-dry wine presents Turkish delight and citrus flower on the nose, followed by spice notes. The palate offers an abundance of crushed rose petal supported by citrus and spice. Texturally rich, this wine has great length. RRP NZ$24.95