New Zealand Wine - Praise and Criticism

Praise and Criticism

Cloudy Bay Vineyards set a new standard for New World Sauvignon blanc and was arguably responsible for the huge increase in interest in such wines, particularly in the United Kingdom. Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy, a French luxury brand conglomerate, now owns a controlling interest in Cloudy Bay.

Following on from the early success of Sauvignon blanc, New Zealand has been building a strong reputation with other styles; Chardonnay, Cabernet/Merlot blends, Pinot noir, Pinot gris and Syrah to name a few.

UK wine writer Paul Howard observes, when commenting on New Zealand Pinot noir that, while "comparisons with Burgundy are inevitable, New Zealand Pinot noir is rapidly developing its own distinctive style, often with deeper color, purer fruit and higher alcohol. While regional differences are apparent, the best wines do have Burgundy’s elusive complexity, texture and “pinosity” and are capable of ageing". He goes on to say "It is a testament to the skill and craft of New Zealand producers that poor examples are infrequently encountered".