Clearview Estate’s 2016 Reserve Chardonnay has again been named in the 2018 Fine Wines of New Zealand list compiled by our national airline carrier to celebrate this country’s greatest wines.
Established in 2015, the definitive Fine Wines of New Zealand list is curated by a group of seven New Zealand wine experts including six Masters of Wine and a Master Sommelier, the annual list names the 67 finest wines for possible service in Air New Zealand Business Class. The wines are judged on criteria including quality, provenance, pedigree, excellence in winemaking and longevity.
Clearview Estate’s winemaker, Matt Kirby, says it is affirming to be selected in such a strong group.
“The Masters of Wine are all key influencers in the industry and we are delighted that our Reserve Chardonnay is considered to be one of New Zealand’s finest wines; a wine that can truly stand the test of time as a world-class example of the variety.”
Judge Simon Nash MW says great wine isn’t the result of a bit of luck and good vintage. “It’s years of hard work and complex perseverance.”
Clearview Estate’s Reserve Chardonnay first emerged in 1991, created by the winery’s co-owner Tim Turvey. In recent years, the wine has been made by winemaker Matt Kirby, who joined the production team in early 2015.
Additional to being named as a Fine Wine of New Zealand, the 2016 Reserve Chardonnay has received five stars from wine reviewers Raymond Chan and Michael Cooper, and five stars from Wine Orbit magazine and sommelier Cameron Douglas. The wine was also awarded gold at the New World Premium Selection 2017.
