You, like me, may have the feeling that New Zealand is well represented with wine regions beginning with “W”.  The Waipara region under discussion here is situated north of Christchurch in New Zealand’s south island, and is known for pinot noir, riesling, gewurtztraminer, pinot gris and viognier, among other varieties.  It’s not to be confused with Waitaki (further south), Wairarapa (in the north island, with Martinborough its best known subregion) and Waikato (north island again, further north) or Wairu Valley in Marlborough on the south island.

The 2012 vintage pinot noir from Waipara Hills in Waipara, is a light ruby in colour, and has attractive aromatics of stems, herbs, fresh thyme and cherry.  The palate has a touch of smoke, cherry, short to medium length and short of firm acidity.  Overall, this is a balanced wine that is ready to drink now and is a complete and pleasant offering.  Acceptable to Good

Abv: 13%
Price: $21.99
Source: sample
Vendors: Check http://www.wine-searcher.com/
Website: http://waiparahillswines.co.nz
Tasted: 2013
Subscribe: Subscribe to benefit from regular, considered and independent wine reviews from Grape Observer. Please enter your email address in the subscription icon on the right of screen to receive updates by email.