We were very pleased to read in the latest edition of Winestate Magazine that our Urlar Pinot Noir 2009 was voted top Wairarapa Pinot Noir (equal with Palliser Estate’s Pinot Noir 2008).  The judges were Michael Cooper, Simon Nunns and Corey Hall who awarded the maximum 5 stars.  They wrote “Rich, instantly appealing wine from the northern Wairarapa, full-coloured and generous, deep and finely textured.  Very ripe and savoury, with dense, sweet fruit and lovely weight, balance and length.”

Urlar’s Sauvignon Blanc 2010 also faired well with 4 stars; “‘Sweaty armpit’ aromas lead into a fleshy, well rounded, northern Wairarapa wine with ripe nectarine and passionfruit flavours, a hint of herbs, and excellent concentration.”

Urlar Noble Riesling 2009 (375ml) was given 4 stars by Michael Cooper under the banner Sweet White & Fortified.  He writes – “Highly scented Gladstone, Wairarapa wine with concentrated flavours of citrus fruits, spices, marmalade and honey and a sweet, lingering finish.”

Peter’s Picks are independently selected by wine writer Peter Saunders.  This feature is designed with restaurants and wine retailers in mind and reflects a mix of factors including price, availability and overall drinkability.  He writes:

Urlar Gladstone Sauvignon Blanc 2010 – Quite a potent style, dry, almost austere for this variety, and young.  Changes will follow as 2011 passes but very good with food now to enjoy the intensity.  From this Wairarapa sub-region (Gladstone), Urlar have hit the ground running with a splendid range of wines.

Peter Saunders writes;

Urlar Gladstone Pinot Gris 2009 – Urlar – the earth, we are told.  What the earth at Gladstone (sub-region of Wairarapa) has given us this year is a beautiful pinot gris with depth, balance and some lovely fruit.  Old-oak fermented and left to sit there for a while, the complexity of this wine is quite special, helped by a little extra time in the bottle also.  A fine pinot gris statement in full form now, into 2013. 

Urlar Gladstone Pinot Noir 2009 – Urlar is a new Wairarapa name, very much on the rise.  Holding on to finesse and elegance in a big weighted pinot is an achievement, and the beauty of this wine will open up further in the bottle through 2011 and be fine drinking well beyond.  Already a satisfying dinner style, full flavoured, well textured and a delight to hold in the month.