The wines from the Herzog winery are now labelled Hans Herzog in Australasia and simply Hans in other markets as a result of action by a Californian winery. As immigrants from Switzerland Hans and Therese Herzog are new on the Marlborough scene but have already made considerable impact with tiny quantities of handmade reds. With considerable winemaking experience to draw upon, the philosophy is for unfined, unfiltered wines from low yielding, hand picked grapes coming entirely from their own modest biodynamically run 11 ha vineyard. Spirit of Marlborough is a Bordeaux-style red from Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Malbec roughly two-thirds Merlot. There is a cool component to the fruit and tannins again in but with time this contributes to a stylish, nuanced flavour complexity. Much fuss has been made about an unusual Montepulciano (which includes 15% Cabernet Franc). Ripe and characterful, this shows plenty of Montepulciano flesh and depth as well as good intensity, concentration and length given the relative immaturity of the vines. The wine will unquestionably benefit from 3 or 4 years patience. Young vines also limit the potential of a Pinot Noir yet it already shows a seductive immediacy on the palate. Small amounts of Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and even Viognier, with something of a cult following, are also made. The Viognier is very ripe and exotic, Pinot Gris intense and concentrated. The winery restaurant is establishing a similarly enviable reputation.
Hans Herzog Marlborough www.herzog.co.nz
Hans & Therese Herzog 81 Jeffries Road, Blenheim, Marlborough
Tel: 03 572 8770 Fax: 03 572 8730
Read more here: Hans Herzog Marlborough
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