Te Kairanga

[Rawshack]

Any NZ posters (or Aus posters for that matter) know much about this producer? Tried the 08 Estate pinot last night and was mildly impressed...

[JDSJDS]

I believe it still considered to be one of the top Martinborough producers of Pinot, close to Ata Rangi and Escarpment. Haven't had many of their wines lately, so can't speak from recent tasting experiences, though.

[burgster]

Close to Ata Rangi etc geographically or quality wise?

[GraemeG]

Not tasted widely, or at the top of the pinot range (John somebody)
The std 2006 is aging and ready to drink, and the same can be said for the 2004 Runholder (middle tier).
Does it make sense to say they're slightly better wines than their price indicates?
The flagship might be different, but the lower wines are drink-soon propositions.
cheers,
Graeme

[Craig(NZ)]

used to be more respected 10 years ago than today, they seemed to have faded off the radar and have moved more into the supermarket $20ish area

[ACG]

Ordinary these days. I believe they were in serious financial strife only recently. Cheap wines are ok.

[mf]

I tasted some 06s and the 08 Estate Pinot earlier this year. I remember some of the wines were a bit funky (not necessarily in a good way) - the new winemaker wondered at the puzzled look on my face and believed there may be some wild malo (I think she was not necessarily a fan and commented that this "wild" character was not necessarily mentioned as being part of the wine).

From looking at their website (below) it seems their new winemaker is from Church Road wines (and the new Technical Director is also from Church Road). I am not sure if the 2008 Estate Pinot is the work of the new or old winemakers (or a combination of the two). I don't know anything about Church Road wines either.

http://www.tekairanga.co.nz/People_12.aspx

[Bick]

I'm sure I had a glass or two of a recent vintage Runholder (06/07?) not so long ago and I was underwhelmed as I recall.

[pizzler]

I was impressed with the 05 Sauvignon Blanc that was long on the flavor at a very good QPR. I remember the tart lime flavors at the start and lingering apricot/grapefruit flavors on the back end. It has good balance and is very food friendly.

[Seven]

purchased 6 bottles of John Martin 2005 earlier this year. Not impressed...