Winepress - November 2012

WINEPRESS Issue No. 220 / November 2012

Our Pinots Impress

Vineyard Sales

New Board

Climate Change

Photo: Jim Tannock

The Official Magazine of

www.wine-marlborough.co.nz

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In this issue...

Regulars

Features

3 6

10

Editorial Tasman Crop Met Report

9 Marketing Matters Y-ine; 24 Generation Anna Bishop 31 Wine Happenings From Home and 32 News Away

Vineyard Sales on the Rise At the end of 2011, the sale of vineyards and the prices being paid, bottomed out. Since then, there have been more than 20 vineyards sold in Marlborough

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as the wine industry looks to consolidate.

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Marlborough Bucks Trend While the mean temperature in most grape growing regions of New Zealand rises, in line with global warming – Marlborough isn’t following suit. We find out why.

All correspondence including advertising / associate memberships / change of address to: Wine Marlborough PO Box 511, Blenheim 7240 T: 03 577 9299, F: 03 577 9298 E: admin@wine-marlborough.co.nz www.wine-marlborough.co.nz

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Welcome and Farewell

Following the recent Wine

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Marlborough board elections, we say farewell to two stalwarts – Anna Flowerday and Richard Rose. We also welcome in two new members, Simon Clark and Laurin Gane.

Printed by: Blenheim Print Ltd. T: 03 578 1322 WINEPRESS is printed with vegetable oil based inks on elemental chlorine free paper which is sourced 100% from well managed forrests and manufactured under ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems.

29

The Importance of Strategic Reviews Last year New Zealand Winegrowers undertook one, and recently so did Wine Marlborough.

David Taylor from Positive Potential explains why Strategic Reviews are so important.

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The Official Magazine of Wine Marlborough

11/2012 WINEPRESS

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UNCONTRACTED SAUVIGNON BLANC

Riverlands

• 13.146ha (32.4 acres) • Located adjacent to State Highway 1 at Riverlands and zoned Industrial 2 • 10ha canopy comprising of approx. 22,200 vines • 2.5m rows x 1.8m spacings • 145 ton 3 year average • An opportunity to secure an established uncontracted producing vineyard with 2013 crop included

Deadline Sale 4pm, Thurs 29 Nov 2012 Bayleys, Cnr Charles & Seymour Street, Blenheim (unless sold prior)

www.bayleys.co.nz/112590

Andy Poswillo M 027 420 4202 B 03 578 7700

andy.poswillo@bayleys.co.nz

VINING REALTY GROUP LTD, BAYLEYS LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

PRODUCING VINEYARD

Awatere

• 63.253ha • Located in the established Awatere wine region • 43ha canopy comprising of 115,600 plants • Approx. 28ha Sauvignon Blanc with the balance Pinot Noir and Chardonnay • 9 Frost Boss wind machines • B class water right from the Awatere River • Fruit supply contract optional with the full benefit of the 2013 crop included

Deadline Sale 4pm, Thurs 29 Nov 2012 Bayleys, Cnr Charles & Seymour Street, Blenheim (unless sold prior)

www.bayleys.co.nz/112589

Andy Poswillo M 027 420 4202 B 03 578 7700

andy.poswillo@bayleys.co.nz

VINING REALTY GROUP LTD, BAYLEYS LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

www.bayleys.co.nz

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11/2012 WINEPRESS

The Official Magazine of Wine Marlborough

Produced by:

From the Editor

Wine Marlborough Free to all levy paying members Associate Members: $77 +GST Editor: Tessa Nicholson

It’s been a long time coming, but at last there are signs that the worm has turned, and the future for Marlborough’s wine industry looks positive. At least in terms of Sauvignon Blanc and the demand for this one variety. With the lower than expected yields in 2012, the demand has all of a sudden outweighed supply. The hard work undertaken by marketing personnel has paid off and we now have increasing demand and the

16 Bank Street

fear we won’t have enough wine to supply that demand.

Blenheim

There is no surer sign of the positive nature of the industry, than the sale of producing

T: 021 709 571

vineyards in this region.

E: tessa.nicholson@me.com

As valuer Dave Stark points out in this issue, the demand for vineyards has risen

If you wish to make contact with any

had dropped to their lowest since the 2008 downturn began, they are now clearly on

member of the Wine Marlborough

the rise.

Board, the following are their email

That is being fed by the number of people wanting to shore up supply, whether they

addresses.

be wineries or established growers wanting to increase their own portfolio. There have

Dominic Pecchenino:

also been at least two foreign companies investing heavily in this region, another sign

nzyanks@xtra.co.nz Blair Gibbs: blair@spyvalley.co.nz James Jones: james@starborough.co.nz Ivan Sutherland: ivan@dogpoint.co.nz Ben Glover: ben@witherhills.co.nz Ruud Maasdam: ruud@staetelandt.co.nz Clive Jones: cjones@nautilusestate.com Guy Lissaman: glissaman@xtra.co.nz

exponentially in the past 10 months. From a situation where at the end of 2011, prices

that the international reputation of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is anything but dead.

This time a year ago, numerous vineyards were on the market, and no one appeared in any hurry to want to buy them. So far this year, more that 20 have been sold, and each month the prices paid for prime land steadily increases.

“This is being driven largely by the Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc shortage,” Dave says.

There is still a long way to go before we reach the heady heights of prices being paid back in 2006 and 2007. But realistically, would we want to get back to that stage, where prices for land, drove fruit prices up beyond the realms of sensible business? I am sure there are a few growers who would love to see that happen, but not if it leads to another recession for the industry overall, surely.

What does need to happen is for sustainable profitability to return to Marlborough growers and wineries. Let’s hope that is not too far off.

This month we farewell two of the stalwarts of the Wine Marlborough Board. Both Anna Flowerday and Richard Rose have stepped down after each serving seven years. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank both for their tireless efforts on behalf of all the members. And to welcome our new board members, Laurin Gane and Simon Clark.

Laurin Gane: laurin.gane@xtra.co.nz Simon Clark: simon@clarkestate.com

TESSA NICHOLSON tessa.nicholson@me.com

The Official Magazine of Wine Marlborough

11/2012 WINEPRESS

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3

Letters To The Editor Dear Editor,

were seven of us, they reduced this to

on the community scheme or if a batch

I am a member of a small irrigation

$3000.00 for the 7 titles plus GST and

owner rents their bach, how is this not a

scheme located in the Southern Valleys.

disbursements.

commercial use of the water.

The scheme was put in place in 1994

We were surprised to find the Council

What’s more, the Council can terminate

when the subdivision was done and

wouldn’t approve us using the services of

the license for the pipelines in public

obviously met all the Marlborough District

an independent lawyer, stating we had to

road, with 6 months notice, and so long

Council requirements.

use the Council’s legal services provider.

as they can prove they are acting in

But now we are facing one off costs set

It has to be pointed out that the

good faith, they do not have to give any

by the council, because our water pipes

encumbrance only relates to those

reason for the termination. The cost of

travel beneath the sealed road.

using the water for commercial use –

removing the water pipes and repairing

We were first made aware of this cost

which the seven of us are deemed to

any damage to the road, comes down to

in 2004, when applying for a Resource

be, because we own vineyards, which

the property owner (encumbrancer) not

Consent, when the Council told us that

require water for irrigation. If we were

the Council.

we needed to comply with the Council’s

deemed to be a community scheme,

This has major implications for any

license.

rather than commercial, this would not

commercial user of water in Marlborough

Skip forward to 2009, when the Council

be happening.

whose property is serviced by a

informed each property owner on our

This is because Council has

pipeline in a legal road. We sought a

road, that anyone receiving commercial

decided that imposing the cost of the

meeting with three Marlborough District

benefits from using the water, would

encumbrances on individuals in a

Councilors to discuss our concerns and

require an encumbrance registered

community scheme would be likely to be

were refused a meeting.

against it. (This is basically a waiver that

unacceptable to the community. As we

With the numerous other water schemes

if anything should go wrong with the

all know, the commercial users of water in

in Marlborough benefitting from use

water pipes, causing damage to property

the district are subject to big fluctuations

of public road this has the potential to

or business, the Council cannot be held

in production and income due to varying

be a major cost for schemes but also

financially liable.)

factors. In fact since 2008 the grape

conversely a major source of income for

This may not seem like a big thing, but it

industry has been severely affected with

Council Solicitor.

is the cost of such an encumbrance that

most, if not all grower’s incomes more

Pete Reed

has upset myself and other users in our

than halving. Surely the costs involved in

area.

these encumbrances should be equally

In relation to our consent there are 7

unacceptable to the commercial users

titles to be encumbered and we were

who are all still part of the community

told the standard fee was $700.00 plus

and are also huge contributors to the

GST and $90.00 disbursements. We

Marlborough economy.

thought this was quite high, so asked a

Interestingly enough, the Council has

lawyer to provide a quote for how much

identified that there are community

the encumbrance work would cost. They

schemes and they should be treated

quoted $500.00 per title but given there

differently. If there is a motel or lodge

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11/2012 WINEPRESS

The Official Magazine of Wine Marlborough

Dear Editor, I refer to issue 219 of Winepress and in particular, the article “Eight out of 10 cats…” by Phil Reedman MW. It exemplifies not only the uniqueness of “ brand Marlborough” but also the need to promote and keep promoting it.

In my humble opinion, only Marlborough

grape growers and wine producers can

rather than pushing Marlborough as a

again; “There is no substitute for the real

do this for us.

wine-producing region.

thing”

NZWG could never do this. Imagine the

As a grower of Sauvignon Blanc grapes,

“Eight out of 10 cats…” by Phil

wrath from Hawkes Bay, Otago and other

I urge Wine Marlborough’s Board, (and I

Reedman MW should be compulsory

wine producing regions.

hope other growers and wine producers

reading by everyone involved in wine in

We have a Marlborough based

will agree with me) to develop and action

Marlborough.

organisation representing us. Wine

a promotional/advertising campaign

Mike Veal

Marlborough Ltd receives funds from us

based simply on the word Marlborough

via the annual levies. Wine weekends and

and its association with wine. It need not

wine festivals, while great fun locally, do

be major – simply repetitive in selected

not really extend beyond our region, let

media viewed by consumers.

alone overseas.

In conclusion may I remind readers of

Visits and tastings by wine writer’s help

what many of the world’s leading brands

but they invite comparisons of wine styles

say, and keep saying over and over

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11/2012 WINEPRESS

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Met Report Table 1: Blenheim Weather Data – October 2012

much warmer than average October was 2001. In the six years from 1998-2002, Blenheim experienced above average October mean temperatures.

October 2012

October 2012 compared to LTA

October LTA

Period of LTA

October 2011

GDD’s for month -Max/Min¹ GDD’s for month – Mean²

99.1 110.6

97% 101%

102.0 109.5

(1996-2010) (1996-2010)

93.0 93.6

Growing Degree Days Total Jul – Oct 12 – Max/Min Jul - Oct 12 – Mean

189.3 236.8

102% 99.7%

185.4 237.5

(199602010) 139.9 (1996-2010) 203.5

Mean Maximum (°C) 18.7 Mean Minimum (°C) 7.5 Mean Temp (°C) 13.1 Mean Temp (°C)

+0.6°C -0.3°C +0.5°C +0.1°C

18.1 7.8 12.6³ 13.03

(1986-2011) (1986-2011) (1932-1985) (1986-2011)

17.6 8.2 12.9 12.9

Grass Frosts (<= -1.0°C) 5

equal 3 more

4.9 2.0

(1932-1985) (1986-2010)

2

L.T.A. 1986-2011 13.0

0.8 (1932-1985) 0.1 (1986-2010)

0

1999 14.3 +1.3 135.6

Air Frosts (0.0°C) 0

0.8 fewer equal

Sunshine hours 239.5 106% Sunshine hours – lowest Sunshine hours – highest Sunshine hours total – 2012 1920.0 97.8%

225 140.7 299.6 1962

(1935-2000) 165.5 1983 1969 (1935-2000) 1951.2

Rainfall (mm) 53.0 96% Rainfall (mm) – lowest Rainfall (mm) – highest Rainfall total (mm) – 2012 547.6 99%

55 2.3 161.0 552.0

(1930-2000) 85.4 1961 2001 (1930-2000) 544.2

Evapotranspiration – mm

112.0

114%

98.3

(1996-2011)

Avg. Daily Windrun (km)

320.8

104%

307.9

(1996-2011) 201.6

Mean soil temp – 10cm

11.0

-0.9°C

11.9

(1986-2011)

12.4

Mean soil temp – 30cm

13.3

-0.2°C

13.5

(1986-2011)

13.5

86.6

¹GDD’s Max/Min are calculated from absolute daily maximum and minimum temperatures ²GDD’s Mean are calculated from average hourly temperatures ³Mean temperature for two long-term average periods provided as a contrast October 2012 weather One word fairly accurately describes the weather that Blenheim experienced during October 2012; Average (sunshine, rainfall, mean temperature, growing degree-days).

Temperature October’s mean temperature of 13.1°C was 0.1°C above the long term average over the past 26 years (1986-2011). With some very sunny days during October 2012, the mean maximum temperature was 0.6°C above average. However, the mean minimum temperature was

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11/2012 WINEPRESS

0.3°C below average as October experienced some quite cool nights. As a consequence the average daily range in temperature for October of 11.2°C was 0.9°C above the long-term average of 10.3°C. This is the highest daily range in temperature for October since 2002.

Table 2 details the mean temperatures for October over the 15 years 1998-2012. For the past decade (2003-2012), Blenheim has experienced below average temperatures in six years and average to slightly above average in four years. The last year that Blenheim experienced a

The Official Magazine of Wine Marlborough

Table 2: October mean temperatures for Blenheim 1998-2012 Year

October Deviation October Mean From Growing Temp. Mean Degree(°C) (°C) Days 107.3

1998 14.1 +1.1 126.7 2000 13.4 +0.4 116.1 2001 14.3 +1.3 133.3 2002 13.3 +0.3 99.4 2003 12.0 -1.0 85.5 2004 12.7 -0.3 96.4 2005 12.7 -0.3 96.8 2006 13.1 +0.1 111.7 2007 13.0 equal 108.0 2008 13.0 equal 106.1 2009 11.4 -1.6 71.0 2010 12.4 -0.6 89.0 2011 12.9 -0.1 93.6 2012 13.1 +0.1 110.6 Growing degree-days Figure 1 indicates how the growingdegree days are progressing for the start of the 2012/2013 season (heavy black line ceasing at the end of October). The GDD’s for October are higher than in any of the previous five years (2007-2011) and almost identical to October 2006.

The red line for the 2001/2002 season indicates the gap between that season and the other seasons at the end of October.

The straight black lines from the beginning of November project the growing degree-days out to the end of December 2012 with scenarios of average temperatures or warmer or

cooler by 0.5°C and 1.0°C. These help to give some perspective as to where the current season could progress when compared with other seasons on the graph.

Rainfall October rainfall was very close to the long-term average. Total rainfall for January to October 2012 of 547.6 mm was 99.2% of the long-term average and almost identical to the total for the same period in 2011 (544.2 mm).

Sunshine Although total sunshine hours for October

2012 (239.5 hours) were close to average (225 hours), daily sunshine hours varied markedly. Long-term average daily sunshine for October is 7.26 hours.

Nine days during October recorded greater than 10 hours sun and nine days recorded less than four hours. The 30th October recorded 13.5 hours sun. The most recent day to have recorded more than 13.5 hours sunshine was way back on 17th January 2012, with 14.5 hours.

Wind October 2012 went against the trend of almost all months during the last two years and recorded above average

Figure 1: Growing degree days for Blenheim: days ahead (+) or behind (-) average Growing Degree Day summation starting from 1 September

Figure 2: Blenheim soil moisture (5-35 cm depth) under a mown grass surface with no irrigation.

daily wind run; 320.8 km. This is 59% more wind run than the daily average of 201.6 km recorded in October 2011. The October average (1996-2011) is 307.9 km. Over the past two years Blenheim has consistently recorded below average monthly wind-run. Average wind speed was 13.4 km/hr in October 2012 but only 8.4 km/hr in October 2011.

Evapotranspiration As a consequence of above average daytime temperatures, above average wind-run, above average radiation and slightly below average rainfall, evapotranspiration was well above average for October 2012 at 112 mm, compared to the average of 98.3 mm.

Soil Moisture Most of the month’s rainfall fell from the 8th to 13th October 2012. As a consequence shallow soil moisture (5-35 cm depth) at the Grovetown Park weather station was close to field capacity (38%) on the 15th October (Figure 1 – red line).

However, between the 15th and 31st October the moisture fell by 11%, from 38% to 27%. This highlights how rapidly moisture can be lost from the upper part of the soil profile with warm/windy/ dry conditions. Soil moisture at the end of October 2012 (27%) was almost the same as at the end of October 2010.

However, Figure 1 indicates that in 2011 (blue line) soil moisture did not fall to 27% until 21st November, three weeks later than in 2012. This indicates that irrigation of grapes will begin at an earlier stage in 2012, than in 2011, unless substantial rainfall is received in November 2012.

Rob Agnew Plant & Food Research The Met Report was brought to you by

NZ Owned & Operated

0800 855 255 | tasmancrop.co.nz

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11/2012 WINEPRESS

The Official Magazine of Wine Marlborough

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Marketing Matters KATE CAMERON - WINE MARLBOROUGH

Sauvignon Blanc Yacht Race Over one hundred hardy sailors and

leverage the support of parties involved

initiative and execute something for future

seventeen yachts braved the elements

and bring new supporters in.

years.

in the Cook Strait on October 11 in

Olivia Bowers (Destination Marlborough

Some ideas; we could work in

Marlborough’s very own yacht race.

(DM)) and myself met with key media,

conjunction with restaurants, trade and

With Westerly winds gusting up to 29

event managers and wine aficionados

media the week leading up, or hold

knots on the start line (situated outside

onboard the luxurious super yacht,

a mini twilight festival-like celebration

the Tory Channel entrance) the air was

Pacific Eagle at Queens Wharf and co-

on the wharf with Marlborough and

intense in more ways than one but this

ordinated a tasting of the 2012 Sauvignon

Wellington’s aspiring chefs serving

didn’t deter anyone from achieving their

Blanc. The experience was unique and

our famous aquaculture products to

mission - to release the

admiring Wellingtonians,

2012 Sauvignon Blanc into

complimented by

the North Island.

Marlborough Sauvignon

Up until now the race

Blanc. With all the focus

committee has consisted

on yachting next year with

of only sailing enthusiasts

the America’s Cup, this is

so I was only too happy

a great opportunity to take

to volunteer my time to

the event to the next level,

the committee to learn

to optimise and reflect that

about the event and help

we are the best Sauvignon

develop it into a significant

Blanc producers in the

celebration of Marlborough

world.

and our wines.

I will be working closely

There are two elements

with DM and WCC over

to this yacht race 1)

the next couple of months

Yachts and 2) Wineries - The yacht

received plenty of praise. We received an

to prepare for 2013. If this is something

race was (once again) a success and

encouraging and positive response from

you feel you would like to be involved in

the winery participation was fantastic.

Absolutely Positively Wellington Tourism

please email me kate@wine-marlborough.

There are significant opportunities for

and Wellington City Council (WCC). They

co.nz.

the celebration/promotion in Wellington

definitely saw the value and indicated

Congratulations to the winning yacht

and joint marketing partnership between

they were willing to support, promote and

‘Nefertiti’, skippered by Mike Vining,

the yachts and wineries. I received

assist with any future event.

carrying Tohu Sauvignon Blanc 2012 to

constructive criticism from wineries

It is testament to the yacht race

take out the Line Honours and Handicap

questioning why we weren’t doing

organisers that the race has sustained

of this year’s race in 5 hours 34 minutes.

more? As with many things it comes

itself since 2001. Wine and sailing has a

2nd on Handicap was Slingshot,

down to funding and limited time. Wine

good association and both compliment

skippered by Clive Ballett, carrying Lake

Marlborough is prepared to continue

each other. Now it is our turn to get

Chalice. ‘Real Deal’ was 3rd on handicap

our support of the event in future years,

the momentum going on this fantastic

carrying Nautilus Estate.

The Official Magazine of Wine Marlborough

11/2012 WINEPRESS

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9

Demand for Vineyards Rises TESSA NICHOLSON

If Marlborough is looking for a sign that things are improving in the wine industry, then the recent vineyard sales should provide it.

Since January this year, there have been

It’s interesting to note that from the end

growers who are looking to purchase

more than 20 vineyard sales in the region,

of 2011 we have progressively stepped

nearby or neighbouring properties to

with a number of others still awaiting

back up. We are not going to get to the

increase their fruit supply as the wine

confirmation. Dave Stark, property valuer

giddy heights we saw before, but we are

companies are offering supply contracts.”

for Alexander Hayward Ltd, says that is

beginning to see some positive sales at

Of the 20 or more vineyard properties

a serious turnaround from three years

$150,000 to $160,000 per hectare now.”

sold this year, only three purchasers are

ago, when there had only been a handful

It is wineries and established growers

newcomers to the industry. Dave says

of vineyard sales between January and

that are leading the charge, although

that is another turnaround, given so

October.

there have been a couple of international

many people unassociated with the wine

Driving the sales is the international

purchases in recent months – the Foley

industry were involved in the boom pre

demand for Marlborough Sauvignon

Group buying The NZ Wine Company

2008.

Blanc, and the shortage being felt by

and associated vineyards, and

Many of the recent sales are within the

all wineries following the reduced yields

Rothschilds buying a Rapaura vineyard

well-known and established areas of

in 2012. Once it became apparent the

just last month.

Marlborough, although a few larger

vintage was going to be well below

“We have seen activity from wine

properties have been sold in the Awatere

expectations, Dave said the demand

companies who are looking to source

as well. Most notably, Mission Estate

for vineyards stepped up and has been

fruit supply. They are doing that by

buying the 100ha Cape Campbell

on-going.

looking to obtain contracts, but the

property Cable Station.

“The whole market has altered, we now

contract situation is quite tight. So they

“There weren’t many sales in what I would

have a changed supply and demand

are physically going out into the market to

call the Golden Mile of Rapaura between

balance. The shortage of Sauvignon

buy vineyards. Also there are established

the end of 2008 and 2011,” he says.

Blanc from 2012 and on-going into 2013 has stimulated the market.”

The demand has also seen prices rise considerably, although they are still well short of the heady heights being experienced back in 2006/07 “We went from a peak of over $200,000 a hectare (for producing vines in the central plains of the Wairau) down to $125,000 per hectare in that area. We probably hit the bottom towards the end of 2011.

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The Official Magazine of Wine Marlborough

“They were mainly fringe properties.

region to bear the brunt of over supply

“I think we are starting to see more

Whereas this year we have seen a

and the global financial crisis.

steady growth. To a degree the growth

number of properties in well known areas

“The same flow on affect hasn’t

is being limited by the availability of root

sold.”

happened in other areas yet, because

stock.”

Just proving that the only constant is

this is being driven largely by the

What all industry members now want

change, the people currently looking for

Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc shortage.

to see occur, is a return to profitability –

vineyards, are wanting ones where the

We generally won’t see a flow on to other

both for growers and wineries. Given the

fruit is not already contracted.

areas for some time. They will get the

confidence in the region, the shortage of

“We have had a situation in the last three

benefit, but it might take a few years to

Sauvignon Blanc and the demand for the

years where having a contract was a

filter through. But they didn’t experience

product, Dave believes the future looks

huge advantage if you wanted to market

the peaks and the troughs that we did

brighter now than it has for at least four

your vineyard. But now if you haven’t

here. They were a lot more steady.

years.

got a contract, you have more ability to

Marlborough got really top heavy in 2007

There have been limited bare land sales

market that property to a wider group.

and 2008 and the peak was too high.

in recent years in all South Island grape

One of the things driving demand here, is

Then we had quite a dramatic drop.”

growing regions but the following is a

wineries are looking for properties without

And in case you are wondering if the

broad range of land values assuming

contracts in place.”

recent sales are likely to see another

irrigation water is available, compared

Since 2009, of the small number of

boom, Dave says he doesn’t expect that

with prices in 2006.

vineyard sales in this region, 10 were

to happen.

either mortgagee or receivership sales.

There is one more awaiting sale, believed

SOUTH ISLAND REGION

2012 PRICES (BARE LAND)

2006 PRICES (BARE LAND)

to be one of the last on the market due to

WAIPARA

$30,000 - $40,000 ha

$40,000 - $45,000 ha

the recent downturn.

CENTRAL OTAGO

$35,000 - $70,000 ha

$55,000 – 75,000 ha

Marlborough is leading the way when

NELSON

$45,000 - $55,000 ha

$55,000 - $65,000 ha

WAIRAU PLAINS

$75,000 - $90,000 ha

$100,000 - $120,000 ha

SOUTHERN VALLEYS

$55,000 - $75,000 ha

$70,000 - $80,000 ha

AWATERE

Up to $50,000 ha

Up to $50,000 ha

it comes to demand for vineyards.

Although that has to be countered with the fact Marlborough was also the first

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Marlborough Bucks Climate Change Trends TESSA NICHOLSON

Despite the evidence of global warming it appears Marlborough is not only getting warmer – it is also getting colder.

Professor Andy Sturman from Canterbury University recently presented information on trends emerging in Marlborough, that show this region along with Christchurch is bucking national trends. After researching maximum, minimum and mean temperatures for both regions since 1941, it shows quite clearly that the mean temperature is not going up.

“The second thing I noticed was that the maximum is going up and the minimum seems to be coming down, so the climate seems to be getting more extreme in Marlborough,” Andy said. “I know anecdotally people have been saying; ‘Global warming? What Global warming?

We have been getting more frosts here.’

And it does appear given the figures that you seem to be getting a more extreme thermal climate.”

The temperatures for Marlborough (from Blenheim Airport) have been considered alongside similar figures from other wine growing regions, such as Napier, Nelson and Central Otago.

“If you compare the temperature trends for those other sites, all are showing an increase. But interestingly when we look at the minimum temperature for each of those sites, Christchurch and Blenheim are showing an increase in the daily temperature range. When you look at the number of days of frost (in other wine regions) it looks as though they are

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decreasing. But if you look at the number and plummet at night. of days of frosts per annum for Blenheim “I looked at a classification of twice daily and Christchurch, both of them show an weather patterns over New Zealand increase.” going back to 1958 when records See both graphs. Note the downward began.” trend for Napier, Nelson and What that showed was that there has Queenstown, whereas Blenheim and Christchurch show an increase in frost numbers.

Over the 70year period of statistics, it shows the extremes of temperature in Marlborough, both highs and lows are becoming more pronounced.

The big question is why? Something Andy has been trying to unravel.

One reason could be that the east coast of the South Island is experiencing more anticyclones providing clearer skies that allow temperatures to Source: Sturman and Quénol (2012) rise in the daytime,

The Official Magazine of Wine Marlborough

been a decline in the number of troughs (producing cloudy conditions) and an increase in highs (which produce clear skies).

“The detective novel is weaving a story” Andy said. “So it looks like we are getting a different set of weather patterns affecting the country, and the way those weather patterns interact with the terrain, the mountains and so on is creating the sort of record observed in Blenheim.”

Those differing weather patterns are affected by what is known as the Southern Annular Mode, which in layman’s terms is a doughnut shaped circulation, centred on the South Pole.

“It basically shrinks and stretches, to the extent that all the weather systems get compressed towards the South Pole, or move away from the pole.”

Variations in the Southern Annual Mode show that the key trend is for weather systems moving towards the pole, with the anticyclones normally located north of New Zealand, moving further south.

“So the low pressure systems in the Southern Ocean are not affecting us as much as they have in the past. Again this reinforces and ties in with the trends we are seeing in the temperatures here in Marlborough” One other way of explaining the

temperature trends is via the M1 index, which is based on pressure differences between Hobart and the Chatham Islands and measures the dominance of southerly or northerly winds over New Zealand. Trends in the index suggest that there have been increasingly southerly winds over the period of 1958 to 2010.

“So not only have we had less cloud, we have also had colder air masses particularly hitting parts of the country exposed to the south, which could also explain why we are getting increased frosts on the south-eastern side.”

It’s rather nice to know we are not imagining the increase in cooler temperatures at night, or the rise in maximum temperatures during some summer months. But what does it mean for Marlborough as a wine-growing region? Obviously any increase in frost potential in spring and autumn is going to place pressure on growers. What Andy and a team of international researchers are now planning to do, during a two-year project, is investigate localised variations in vineyard weather throughout the region. This will be used to help predict future environmental conditions for grape production.

Using high resolution computer modelling, temperatures, humidity levels,

wind speed among other climatic factors, will be analysed on an hourly basis. The end result will be an in-depth summary of conditions that can then be used to pinpoint areas of risk versus where operation decisions are more likely to be required to limit impact of extreme weather conditions. The climate study hopes to increase the New Zealand wine industry income by up to 10 per cent, by 2020, through the application of modelling tools resulting from this research.

“Adaptation strategies will be designed to include both short-term operational decisions such as pruning regimes, canopy management and response to frost and disease occurrence,” Andy said. “And longer-term decisions related to planting of grape varieties to ensure that they are better adapted to changing environmental conditions.”

Reference: Sturman, A. and Quénol, H. 2012 Changes in atmospheric circulation and temperature trends in major vineyard regions of New Zealand. International Journal of Climatology, DOI: 10.1002/ joc.3608. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com.ezproxy. canterbury.ac.nz/doi/10.1002/joc.3608/ abstract

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The Official Magazine of Wine Marlborough

Lex Thomson B.Vit & Oen. is available to assist the winegrower.

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Lincoln and NMIT Sign Agreement The continued delivery of a bachelor degree in viticulture at NMIT’s Marlborough Campus has been secured. industry training,” he says.

The partnership between Lincoln University and Nelson Marlborough

“It’s not only Marlborough

Institute of Technology positions

students who’ll benefit, students

NIMIT’s Marlborough campus as

are also coming up from Lincoln

the only New Zealand education

to study at NMIT, as well as from

provider offering students two

other parts of the country.”

vintage experiences during their

NMIT’s two-year Diploma in

viticulture studies.

Viticulture and Wine Production

“This partnership with Lincoln

is a practical, hands-on

University further cements

programme where students get

Marlborough’s reputation as a

one vintage of practical industry

centre of excellence for wine industry training and is another example of how we are meeting the

NMIT Chief Executive Tony Gray (left) and Lincoln University Vice-Chancellor Dr Andrew West

needs of our students, community and local industry,” NMIT Chief Executive Tony Gray says.

NMIT this month signed an extension of its agreement with Lincoln University to deliver the university’s Bachelor in Oenology at the Marlborough Campus.

The agreement provides an assurance for the continuation of the Bachelor programme in Marlborough, and means students have a guaranteed pathway from NMIT’s two-year Diploma in Viticulture to a Bachelor Degree without having to leave the region.

“It’s the most convenient and cost effective option for our viticulture students wanting to continue their studies at university,” Mr Gray says.

Lincoln University Vice-Chancellor Dr Andrew West says it is proud to be

associated with NMIT and its viticulture programme.

“NMIT have strong industry networks and are already delivering high-quality training in viticulture, and our bachelor degree adds to the calibre of the programme,” he says. “Marlborough is one of the best places in New Zealand to study viticulture, so partnering with NMIT in this region to deliver our degree made sense.”

NMIT Primary Industries Programme Area Leader Jeff Wilson says it is exciting to have certainty for the continued delivery of the bachelor degree.

“This agreement shows the confidence that both the providers and industry have in our viticulture programme, and in this

work experience and, should they choose to progress on to the Lincoln University Degree, a second vintage experience plus a summer school.

“Thanks to our relationship with Lincoln University, NMIT is the only viticulture training provider in New Zealand where students can experience two vintages as part of their learning,” Mr Wilson says.

NMIT Group Manager Economic Development, Sharon McGuire, says the Top of the South is a dominant presence in the New Zealand wine industry and “NMIT is right in amongst it”.

“There are challenges facing the sector, but by offering higher education, flexible learning opportunities and partnering with other institutes, universities and organisations we’re ensuring students have everything they need to succeed.”

region as a premier destination for wine

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15

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11/2012 WINEPRESS

The Official Magazine of Wine Marlborough

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17

Marlborough Pinots Impress TESSA NICHOLSON

Two leading wine critics have been effusive about the quality of Marlborough Pinot Noir in recent weeks. Is this a coming of age for this region?

In a recent article in the Air New

for the wines from the Cromwell

Zealand KiaOra magazine, Master of

basin of Central Otago – which tend

Wine Bob Campbell noted that of the

to also be quite distinctive.

241 Pinots he has tasted this year,

“But Marlborough is not.”

the top spot went to a Marlborough

When asked why the wines were

wine. On top of that, six of the top

suddenly standing out, Bob said

10 wines were from this region. Even

there were many reasons.

he admits to being surprised at that

“I think if you look historically, they

result.

were over cropped and planted

“I was surprised given the reputation

on the wrong sites. But then they

of Marlborough,” he said. “They

started getting results from the

tend to come third in most people’s

richer soils close to the Wither Hills

minds, (behind Martinborough and

and other heavier soil areas. That

Central Otago). Marlborough is so

was when they started producing

well known for Sauvignon Blanc, but

superior wines. I think the Clayvin

there is certainly life beyond that for

vineyard was a bit of a break

the region.”

through and there have been others

Many Marlborough winemakers

as well. And look at some of the

have lamented the fact that this area

effort that is being put into Pinot

doesn’t get the accolades it deserves

Noir development (in Marlborough)

when it comes to producing high

by the likes of Nautilus with their

quality Pinots. Bob said a lot of

Bob Campbell

that may be to do with the fact the wines are more definable from those regions, than they are from Marlborough.

“What you have in Marlborough is the wines from the Awatere, Benmorven, Brancott, Omaka and Waihopai, plus cross-district blends. That creates a range of styles. I don’t see a clear Marlborough style, instead I see many

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styles within the district.

“It’s a good thing in that it adds complexity to the region’s wines. But it’s not so good in that they lack a definition.”

He said the wines of Martinborough are very distinctive, mainly due to the fact it is such a small region and the wines have a commonality about them. The same goes

The Official Magazine of Wine Marlborough

specialist Pinot winery, and Cloudy Bay who are really going for it, that helps.”

He doesn’t believe however it all has to do with the increase in Dijon Clones being planted in the region.

“We are getting some interesting results from the Dijon clones, but I am not totally convinced that they are the be all and end all. I think the Abel clone is pretty

Change of Leadership

Tyson Stelzer exciting and that has been around for a

“Blimey.”

long time.”

He was looking mostly at the wines from

While many may say the jump in quality

2011, and said Marlborough was coming

has to do with the vines getting older,

of age when it came to producing Pinot

Bob believes it is still too early for that.

Noir.

“I give Martinborough credit for vine age,

“The Marlborough wines have stepped

given some of the density and richness

up to a new level. Not so much in

and consistency perhaps in their wines.

intensity, but depth perhaps, in the way

But I don’t see that in Marlborough yet.

the fruit was expressed. It was really

I guess that is something we can look

exciting. I saw more uniformity in tannin

forward to, rather than what we are

ripeness, flavour ripeness and acid

seeing at the moment.”

ripeness. The alcohol levels were lower

The top Pinot Noir in Bob’s tasting of

too, which is a good thing – and many

241 wines from both the 2010 and 2011

others in the world would think that was a

vintage – was Villa Maria, Single Vineyard

good thing too.”

Southern Clays 2010. He describes it as

During the tasting, which also included

a wine that is “totally seductive.”

other South Island Pinots, Tyson said

Bob Campbell wasn’t the only wine

the most balanced wines were the ones

critic to be impressed. Australian based

sitting between 13 and 14% alcohol.

wine writer Tyson Stelzer (who writes for

“I think the best of those 2011’s will age

Decanter and Wine Spectator among

very well. There seems to be more tannin

others) described his Marlborough Pinot

structure in them.”

tasting in one word.

Steve Green has taken over as the new Chairman of the Board of New Zealand Winegrowers. The Deputy Chair role will be held by John Clarke of Gisborne.

Steve, the owner of Carrick, a boutique Central Otago winery succeeds Stuart Smith of Marlborough who has stepped down after six years in the role. Having been involved in the Central Otago grape and wine industry since 1994, Steve previously served as Chair of Central Otago Winegrowers and has been on the New Zealand Winegrowers Board since 2005, serving for the last three years as Deputy Chair.

John Clarke is a Gisborne grapegrower with over 30 years experience in the grape and wine industry. A former Gisborne Mayor, John has previously served for 10 years as the Chair of Gisborne Winegrowers and joined the New Zealand Winegrowers Board in 2006.

Commenting on his appointment as Chair, Steve said; “The position is a huge honour. I am succeeding Stuart Smith who was a tireless advocate for the industry and was held in wide respect by all stakeholders. Stuart has left the Board and New Zealand Winegrowers in a very strong position.”

He is optimistic about the future for New Zealand wine. “The sector has been through tough times in the last few years, but we are definitely seeing signs of improvement. Our intentional reputation remains strong and this is a good base from which to begin the next phase of our evolution.”

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Farewell and Welcome TESSA NICHOLSON

After seven years each on the board of Wine Marlborough, Anna Flowerday and Richard Rose have both stood down. They are replaced by Simon Clark and Laurin Gane.

Anna Flowerday:

me. I say, step up and be that someone,

were getting paid over $2500 a tonne for

Australian born, but passionate about

or take your turn to be that someone.

fruit, for wine that was still only selling for

Marlborough, Anna says her time on the

It even goes so far as being the same

between $20 and $25. The Marlborough

board has provided her with valuable

companies that always put their hands

Sauvignon Blanc situation reminded me

lessons. Not the least being, that to

up. If we need volunteers for something,

of what we had just been through with the

achieve goals, you have to be involved.

it’s always the same companies saying

Australian Shiraz situation. There was a

“I’m ultra passionate about this place,

yes. The others are saying, ‘Oh yes that’s

lot of planting, really fast, sometimes in

and while I didn’t grow up here, I see it

cool, someone should do this, but I don’t

the wrong spots, some without contracts.

from an outsider’s perspective that it is

have time.’ Well everyone of us could say

It seemed that people were just whacking

an exceptional place to grow grapes and

that, and then where would we be.”

vineyards in the ground without thinking

make wine.”

In the past seven years, Anna has seen

about where the fruit was going to go.”

But for some reason she says, most of

the highs and lows of the industry, and

Protecting what Marlborough has and

the Wine Marlborough membership is not

consequently as a board member she

securing it for the future, is a big part

prepared to be involved at a board level.

has had to deal with many of those.

of the board’s role. And Anna has

“We run the risk of being too apathetic,

“When I first came here, I couldn’t figure

learned that there is far more to Wine

in thinking that someone will do it for

out how the maths of it worked. People

Marlborough, than big events like the Wine and Food Festival and the Wine Weekends. Advocacy is one area that she believes is vital, yet is the least understood.

“It is probably the one that takes up the most of board member’s time.

Labour issues, working alongside NZ Winegrowers, advocating with the council about water usage, frost fans, winery activities, compost and signage.”

For a period of time, Anna says the communication channels between the industry and the District Council left a lot to be desired.

“That wasn’t good for anyone, because issues would then start appearing in the media. So opening up channels with other important parties, like the Council

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The Official Magazine of Wine Marlborough

has been a big highlight.”

Finally getting winery signage up was another biggie, especially since the issue had been a thorn in the side of the wine industry for more than 25 years. Looking to the future, she believes the most important issue facing Marlborough now, is establishing and enforcing the regional GI. “It is important to protect what’s important, unique and special about Marlborough from here on.”

As a board member, Anna was on a number of sub committees, including, marketing, finance, advocacy and environmental. Her enthusiasm and passion for the Marlborough wine industry will be missed at a board level,

towards the Clark family establishing their

“That was a real confidence booster and

but she is more than happy to hand the

own label, rather than relying on being

showed us that we have something very

reins over to Simon Clark, from Clark

able to sell the fruit to other wineries. In

special here.”

Estate.

2006 Boreham Wood, (named after the

Having now been involved in the

English town where Simon’s parents Peter

Marlborough wine industry for nearly 10

and Jane were married) was launched.

years, Simon says he stood for the board,

But while the name was a selling point in

to become more aware of what happens

the UK, Simon says it became obvious

in all aspects of the industry.

that it wasn’t an asset when trying to

“I don’t like sitting on the side-line. I want

sell in other parts of the world. So the

to be involved and help the industry that

label Clark Estate was launched in 2008.

I am passionate about, more forward. I

Initially the wines were being made at

think my youth brings a different outlook

Vavasour, then at Marlborough Vintners.

to the board and maybe some new ideas.

In 2010, Simon took over the winemaking

Also given how many members are now

duties – something he says has given him

in the younger demographic, I think its

a greater understanding of the intricacies

good to have someone representing

from vine to bottle.

them.”

“I grow the grapes, and we have varying

Simon is married to Donna, with two

blocks that do different things. I wanted

young boys aged two and four.

Simon Clark Aged 32, Simon becomes the youngest member of the new look Wine Marlborough Board. As winemaker for Clark Estate, (Upper Awatere Valley) Simon is someone who believes in seeing something through, from beginning to end. Which is why he has taken over the role as winemaker for the family run business, while also continuing to be the viticulturist on the 13ha vineyard.

Having completed a Bachelor Degree in Viticulture and Oenology at Lincoln, he went on to work vintages in Australia at Yalumba, Mosel – Loosen, and here in Marlborough. When the 2002 frosts wiped out his parent’s 03 crop, he was offered the chance to take over running the vineyard for them. It wasn’t an easy time. Especially given 50 per cent of the crop was wiped out by frost again in 04, and then in 2005, the family lost 30 per cent of the crop. It was all leading

to carry that though to the winery. It makes the whole process very satisfying, seeing it go from bunches of fruit, to a bottle of wine.”

His first vintage, 2010, saw the Clark Estate Sauvignon Blanc win an Elite Gold at the Air NZ Wine Show and the 2011 Riesling won the Trophy at the Royal Easter Show.

Richard Rose: Richard joined the board back in 2005.

He is an elected board member of the New Zealand Grape Grower’s Council and will represent the council as a voting member on the board of New Zealand Winegrowers.

Co-opted onto the Wine Marlborough

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21

while still

industry and we wanted that to continue.”

maintaining

Given his involvement at the national

quality. They

level, Richard will still play a major part

have had to

in the “politics” of the wine industry. But

manage inputs,

he is more than happy to be able to hand

be prudent with

over the reins to someone new to the

vineyard costs

board.

and still meet

“I have really enjoyed my time (on the

winery yield

Wine Marlborough Board) but it’s really

and quality

important that it keeps evolving. It always

expectations.

needs to have fresh blood and new

Now we have to

ideas coming through. So it’s great to

work together

see people keen to put their hand up,

to get back to a

people who have a vested interest in the

more profitable

industry.”

per hectare board in his first year, he was then

scenario. I think the industry has a pretty

elected the following year.

exciting future, but it needs a planned

As a fifth generation Marlburian, Richard’s

approach to get back to sustainable

family planted their first grapes in

profitability.”

Rapaura back in 1980. He now manages

While on the board one of Richard’s

the property and is very much hands on

main tasks was running the annual Silver

within the vineyard. Like Anna, his time on

Secateurs competition. While this has

the board coincided with some highs and

been dropped at a national level, Richard

lows for the industry overall. But given his

believes it is an important part of the

representation as a grower, he says the

Marlborough wine industry calendar.

biggest issue early on, was the difficulty

“Pruning is a really important part of

of finding enough labour to manage

the growing cycle as everyone knows.

the important seasonal needs, pruning

We thought the Silver Secateurs was

especially. The introduction of RSE and

an important part of the Marlborough

mechanisation has helped alleviate many of those problems, although that has also changed the face of the industry at a grower level.

“The relationship has changed between growers and pruners. Whereas we used to work directly with pruners, now we have a grower, contractor relationship.”

Profitability is an obvious issue to rear its head during his seven-year tenure. Not all of that has to do with the price being paid per tonne, as the over supply issue that led to yield restrictions also impacted heavily on local growers incomes.

“Growers have had to focus on costs,

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The Official Magazine of Wine Marlborough

Laurin Gane Like his predecessor, Laurin Gane’s family have been stalwarts of the Marlborough farming scene for generations, based in the Rapaura area.

Now vineyards dominate where once there were crops, and more recently apples. As a member of the Wine Marlborough board, Laurin is better placed than many to understand how local growers think. That’s because he is the Regional Manager/Technical Field Rep for Tasman Crop, which deals with many of the hundreds of growers spread throughout the region. That one on one, out in the field experience he has with many of the industry members, provides him with the ability to find out first hand what issues are important to growers.

“I think I can offer something from a different perspective. We have our grapes,

but I am also talking to other grape

apart from the price they have been

achieved, to ensure that it is there for the

growers. Because they know me they will

getting. Everybody has had to tighten

next generation.

hopefully feel more comfortable talking

their belts and watch what they are

“I want to be part of this industry and I

about any issues that are bothering

spending.”

want it to be successful so that my kids

them.”

Going forward though he believes the

can also be a part of this industry. I’m

He already has a pretty solid idea of what

greatest issue will be ensuring there is

really excited about being on the board

difficulties growers are facing, and have

enough, suitable labour available.

and helping to achieve that.”Laurin is

had to face in previous years.

“I think that’s going to be an issue when

married to Bridget and they have five-

“Originality it was the crop yields. When

Christchurch starts to re build. The

year-old twin boys.

that first came out four years ago, people

backpacker is all of a sudden going to go

moaned and groaned about it. But I think

and work as a labourer in Christchurch,

The new look board of Wine Marlborough

everyone realises they are now here to

rather than in the vineyards. We have to

is:

stay. Not only because of quality, but

keep supporting RSE to ensure we aren’t

Chairman – Dominic Pecchenino

we need to ensure the supply demand

left without workers.”

Deputy Chair – Clive Jones

equation remains steady, not going up

Given his family background, it isn’t

Blair Gibbs, James Jones, Ivan

and down for the next 20 years. That’s

surprising that Laurin is adamant that

Sutherland, Ben Glover, Ruud Maasdam,

probably the main issue for growers,

Marlborough protects what it has

Guy Lissaman, Laurin Gane, Simon Clark.

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23

Generation Y-ine TESSA NICHOLSON

Anna Bishop At the age of 15, Anna Bishop, made

got to experience first hand. All

brighter lights of the UK and Europe,

her first foray into the world of wine. It

travelled to Hawke’s Bay to pick grapes,

spending two years exploring the other

wasn’t in terms of making it, or even

(Chardonnay), they brought them back to

side of the world, where she worked

consuming it – instead it was of all

the lab, and went about producing a one

a number of random jobs to fund her

things, an English project on Wine in New

off vintage.

travelling.

Zealand. Looking back now, she has no

“I remember making all my flatmates

Despite numerous trips around Europe,

idea what led her to the subject, or why

drink wine for a while there, just so I

she didn’t spend a lot of time in wine

she would decide to base an English

would have enough bottles to put our

making regions, until her Visa ran out and

project on such a topic. Maybe it was

wine in.”

she headed for home, via Africa.

just an auspicious preview of what was to

By the end of the degree, Anna had

“I spent three months there on the way

come later in life. These days Anna is a

her goal set on getting a job in the rural

home and I did visit some wineries in

Winemaker at Delegat’s Wine Estate here

services sector.

South Africa.”

in Marlborough.

“If that didn’t happen, I was thinking

Knowing she didn’t want to head back to

One of three girls, brought up in rural

about going to Lincoln to do the post

her former job, Anna began considering

Canterbury, she admits she was always

graduate course. Taking the winemaking

what other options were open to her.

very science orientated. That has a lot

and viticulture paper at Massey was

“I really loved travelling and I thought

to do with both her parents being horse

something new and exciting and an area

the wine industry with its international

vets, and the natural encouragement at

I hadn’t really considered before then.”

connections could be interesting to get

home of scientific subjects. And despite

It wasn’t to be initially, as Anna was

into, and the fact the New Zealand wine

the English project, she wasn’t looking

offered a job at Summit Quinphos in

industry was continuing to grow helped

for a career in the wine industry. Instead

Taranaki, which involved selling fertilisers

me decide to do the Lincoln course when

she moved to Palmerston North’s Massey

to the myriad of farmers in that region.

I got home.”

University, to undertake an Applied

“I was based in North Taranaki, and

The year was 2006, she admits she

Science Degree, focusing on plants

had dairy, as well as sheep and beef

was incredibly focused, wanting to

and soils. In her third year, she did get

clients. My role involved visiting the

graduate with distinction (which she did)

to try her hand at winemaking. It’s not

farms, taking soil and herbage tests and

and get a job where she could not only

something that you expect to occur in

making nutrient recommendations. It was

gain experience, but also learn more

Palmerston North. An inland city, with

awesome and I loved it.”

about the entire industry. Given her rural

no history of grapes, it’s interesting to

Within 18 months she was promoted to

experience, particularly in terms of soils

note back then the university did offer

Regional Sales Manager, responsible

and plants, the obvious choice would

a viticulture and winemaking paper

for five staff under her as well as three

seem to have been viticulture, rather than

with a laboratory facility for producing

distribution stores. But despite loving

winemaking.

small quantities of wine – something

the job, she didn’t think she could stay

“That was a bit of a dilemma for a

the Applied Science Degree students

in Taranaki forever. So she left for the

while. But once I finished my course at

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11/2012 WINEPRESS

The Official Magazine of Wine Marlborough

Lincoln, I applied for a couple of jobs,

all aspects of winemaking. As part of that,

year here in Marlborough, Anna headed

and decided to accept a position as a

I began in Marlborough and spent a year

to Hawkes Bay to undertake vintage

Graduate Winemaker here at Delegat’s.

working in the winery here, in the cellar,

2008. She also spent time in Auckland

They were also offering a Graduate

lab, being involved with fermentation,

where all of Delegat’s bottling is done. “It

Viticulture position, but to me gaining the

barrel management, tastings, and across

was two years of amazing, concentrated

experience in winemaking and getting

all the winemaking activities. I also spent

experiences.”

involved in that side, seemed more

a bit of time in the vineyard doing yield

In her own mind though, there was never

challenging to get into in New Zealand.

assessments and nutrient testing. It

any doubt where she wanted to end up

So the opportunity was just too good to

was an all round chance to experience

working, given her favourite variety is

pass up.

everything.”

Sauvignon Blanc.

“It was a really fantastic opportunity to

The Graduate Programme offered by

“I just love the flavours in Sauvignon

gain practical and technical skills across

Delegat’s is a two-year one. So after one

Blanc, it’s a fantastic wine. We have such

The Official Magazine of Wine Marlborough

11/2012 WINEPRESS

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25

a unique place here in Marlborough, the

The flavour of Marlborough Sauvignon

when you thought the pallet of Grand Cru

wine is delicious and it’s a pleasure to

Blanc is just so much more intense. The

fruit you were moving round was often

be making a wine that everyone loves to

way they manage their vineyards is also

worth about 50,000.”

drink.”

so different, the density of their plants

Those French vintages have helped

Her love of the variety also inspired her

and the soils they are growing them on.

cement her role within the Delegat’s

to head to the home of Sauvignon Blanc,

It was amazing to go away and do a

Marlborough Team. In 2009 she was

France, where she worked a vintage at

vintage somewhere completely different.

promoted to Assistant Winemaker, and

Didier Dagueneau in the Loire Valley. One

It gave me ideas for things that maybe

promoted yet again early this year to

of the world’s most renowned Sauvignon

we could try. But then again, just because

Winemaker. While fiercely passionate

Blanc producers, the experience just

something makes a good wine in one

about Sauvignon Blanc, she is also keen

added to her love of the variety.

region, bringing that back to Marlborough

to build on her Burgundy experience and

“They are biodynamic producers who

will not produce the same result. It’s not a

become more involved in the Pinot Noir

focus solely on Sauvignon Blanc, most

recipe, that’s for sure.”

production.

of it is fermented and aged in specially

Last year Anna returned to France to do a

“There are already some fantastic Pinots

designed ‘cigar’ barrels. It was a pretty

second vintage, this time in Burgundy, for

around but I think Marlborough Pinot Noir

amazing experience to be working with

Maison Camille Giroud in Beaune. Ninety

definitely has great potential.”

such famous wines. I also got to visit and

per cent of the fruit was Pinot Noir, the

A bit like Anna herself.

taste wines at a lot of other producers in

remainder Chardonnay.

nearby Sancerre as well.”

“It was a fantastic experience, I was

They may have been working with the

fortunate to drink some amazing wines

same varietal, but Anna says there were

and vintages I had never dreamed of

some major differences.

trying. We did a lot of Grand Cru and

“The fruit tastes completely different.

Premier Cru fruit. It was pretty crazy,

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11/2012 WINEPRESS

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The Official Magazine of Wine Marlborough

Putting Marlborough Wine On A Platform ANNABELLE LATZ

For a region that is accountable for 70% of New Zealand’s wine production, it’s somewhat surprising Marlborough has only hosted two regional wine competitions.

It’s due simply to the fact that nobody had got around to organising it in the years gone by. That’s the message from Belinda Jackson, of Wine Competition Ltd, who directs the Marlborough Wine Competition with business partner Margaret Cresswell.

“We really decided to grab the bull by the horns and go for it,” says Belinda.

“The competition has been really well received from the winery producers from word go. They really understand what we’re trying to achieve.”

She said the wine competition creates two opportunities; to put Marlborough’s wines on a platform for both the New Zealand wine industry and the international market, and as a means of collecting data.

“We want to showcase the broader representation of what our region is about.”

The three established sub regions were represented at the competition and Belinda says it’s important for Marlborough’s wine industry, to show differentiations within individual wine varieties. In the “ideal world” for example, there would be clear distinction made between a Sauvignon Blanc produced in the Awatere Valley, to one produced in

the Wairau Valley.

“We want to take it to the next level.”

Belinda says winegrowers in Marlborough can share ideas of style diversity.

“I’m talking about emerging styles. This will help them tell their story; wineries will use this platform to tell the world.

Because the main aim is to get theses messages to the global markets.”

Ability for data collection is a result of running the competition.

“We will be able to give this back to the industry every year.”

As well as the huge potential for such distinctions between Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, Belinda says the emergence of quality aromatics is very exciting, on a local and global scale.

“They are great for Marlborough, and great for Asian markets based on their

food styles. Which is more good reason to show Marlborough’s wines into new parts of Asia.”

She believes to break into that market, recognition at wine competitions is key.

“We have to show track records, because prestige is everything in Asia.”

She also added that entering wine competitions is a “brand by brand decision.”

“Not everybody has to enter competitions, it’s an individual choice.”

Jeff Clarke, head wine maker at Ara Wines led the judging at the event, with a panel of predominantly Marlborough winemakers, and Ralph Kyte-Powell, from Australia.

Money raised from tastings at the Marlborough Wine Competition went to Riding for the Disabled, an organisation Belinda is passionate about, and the funds raised at the wine auction of unopened bottles was put in a charitable trust set up by the company, to further develop the industry.

“We are hoping to have in the region of $40,000 going back into the industry.”

Trophies will be awarded at a dinner on November 10, at the Marlborough Convention Centre.

The Official Magazine of Wine Marlborough

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27

Suppliers of Certified Vines

McAlpines Roundwood Limited

Suppliers of

Quality Roundwood Contact:

Grant Cathcart Phone 03 313 8339 Fax 03 313 3767 Mobile 021 511 460

roundwood@mcalpines.co.nz

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11/2012 WINEPRESS

The Official Magazine of Wine Marlborough

Outstanding In Our Field

Office: 03 5776354 148 Rowley Crescent, Grovetown, Blenheim 7202 www.ormondnurseries.co.nz office@ormondnurseries.co.nz

Why Strategic Review?

TESSA NICHOLSON

New Zealand Winegrowers undertook one last year, Wine Marlborough did one this year. Why the need to strategically review your business?

David Taylor from Positive Potential

customers/members. But once he has

in Marlborough, says undertaking a

the information, it isn’t up to him to tell

strategic review is a bit like developing a

anyone what they have to do – more it

road map for a business.

is a level of suggestion that could help

“For me the phrase strategic review

improve the business overall.

means; where do we want to go, and how

“I give a picture of the health of the

do we get there? What are the things we

enterprise; here’s the bits that are good,

might encounter on the way. To be able

the bits that are okay and here’s the not

to know where we are going, we need to

so good bits. Then I try and give some

engage with lots of people to understand

direction on what the options might be for

where we are, what we are doing well,

those three categories. What I don’t do is

what we are doing not so well and maybe

say, this is what you must do.”

new things we should be doing.”

Those suggestions would be how to

He says regardless of the business or

make the ‘good’, better, the “okays” into

organisation, the main goal is to satisfy

good and the not so goods, a little better.

someone else’s needs, whether that

“What I can say is, these are some

someone be a member or a customer.

directions your might like to consider.”

Therefore it’s important to ensure you

Interestingly the most common strategic

know what those needs are. Often what

aspect considered, is communication

businesses think people want, isn’t as

daily basis to constructively criticise

between the business and its end user.

fully aligned to what their customers

the organisation and consequently for

“The business will say, either its good,

really want.

the individuals to feel it’s not a personal

or it’s not too bad. And the end user will

Complacency can also be a negative in

attack but a fresh perspective. Self-

likely say, it’s not very good or it’s just

the long run. Again, just because you

reviewing also has blind spots, because

okay. It is quite easy to give direction on

have done something one way forever

you are unlikely to ask hard enough

how to fix that kind of item.”

and a day, doesn’t necessarily make that

questions. If you do ask them, you don’t

David has recently reviewed the

the right way. Which is why David says,

keep drilling to check you are getting the

processes of Wine Marlborough, talking

it’s important to review from an outside

most sincere answer.”

to board members, staff, growers and

perspective.

In terms of gaining the information

winery owners. He will be presenting a

“It is difficult to be seen to criticise the

required to complete a strategic review,

summary of his findings at this month’s

colleagues you work with, because

David says he would talk to members

AGM, which will be held on November

of the natural human relationships we

of all aspects of the business. From

22nd, 4.30 at the Marlborough Research

form when working together. It’s easier

the senior managers/owners/board

Centre Theatre.

for someone who is not involved on a

members, through to staff level, and

The Official Magazine of Wine Marlborough

11/2012 WINEPRESS

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29

For Expert Viticultural Property Advice

ALEXANDER HAYWARD LTD Registered Valuers, Property Consultants, Arbitrators Specialising in all aspects of Vineyard and Winery Valuation, Including Specialist Plant and Machinery Contact: Dave Stark Lex Hayward

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Applications close Monday 10th December 2012.

Approximate start date: 4th February 2013.

30

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11/2012 WINEPRESS

The Official Magazine of Wine Marlborough

Increase Soil and Plant Microbial Diversity EM is a global technology, based on providing low cost microbial inoculants to enhance natural processes in soil and in waste and water management. Cost to treat 1 ha can be as low as $10 for EM product.

 Increase response and nutrient utilisation of fertiliser

inputs. Reduce fertiliser inputs by up to 50% without reducing production

 Stimulate soil biology, increase organic matter breakdown

and release of nutrients, improve soil structure and reduce soil borne diseases

 Improve yield and quality of crops  Use in composting for higher quality end-product  Add to wastewater sumps to reduce odour and improve quality of waste water for irrigation

For more information contact: Mike Daly

Ph: 03 374 6323 or 029 9422777 Email: mike@emnz.co.nz

Wine Happenings A monthly list of events within the Marlborough wine industry.

To have your event included in next month’s calendar please email details to tessa.nicholson@me.com NOVEMBER 10

Marlborough Wine Show Dinner to celebrate the Marlborough Wine Industry. The Marlborough Convention Centre. Details at www.marlboroughwineshow.co.nz

14

Air New Zealand Wine Awards results announced

18

Toast Martinborough – Wairarapa

22

Wine Marlborough AGM – 4.30pm - Marlborough Research Centre Theatre (MRC)

24

Air New Zealand Wine Awards Dinner - TSB Arena, Wellington

DECEMBER 1

A Day On The Green Kiwi Summer Edition - Waipara

8

South Island Wine and Food Festival 2012 – Hagley Park - Christchurch

JANUARY 28 - 31 Pinot Noir 2013 – Wellington FEBRUARY 2

Nelson International Aromatic Symposium – details http://aromatics2013.wineart.co.nz/registration

7 – 10 Seresin’s Waterfall Bay Wine and Food Festival – Marlborough. Details james@seresin.co.nz 9

Marlborough Wine and Food Festival – Brancott Vineyard. Tickets available www.ticketek.co.nz & Blenheim & Picton i-site.

13 – 15 NZ Syrah Workshop – Bayview Chateau Tongariro, Mr Ruapehu Winery Exchange - 2013 Harvest Name, Email and Contact Number

Rachael Carter Phone: 021667712 Email: rach@sohowineco.com Rachael Carter Phone: 021667712 Email: rach@sohowineco.com Rachael Carter Phone: 021667712 Email: rach@sohowineco.com David Clouston Phone: 021527550 Email: dave@tworivers.co.nz David Clouston Phone: 021527550 Email: dave@tworivers.co.nz David Clouston Phone: 021527550 Email: dave@tworivers.co.nz

Company Name

Grapes wanted for Vintage 2013 & tonnes sought

Indicate if required from any sub region

Soho Wine Co

Sauvignon Blanc (200 tonnes)

Any

Soho Wine Co

Pinot Gris (25 tonnes)

Any

Soho Wine Co

Pinot Noir (30 tonnes)

Any

Two Rivers Wines

Sauvignon Blanc (100 tonnes)

Any

Two Rivers Wines

Chardonnay (5-8 tonnes)

Any

Two Rivers Wines

Pinot Noir

Southern and Awatere Valley's

The Official Magazine of Wine Marlborough

11/2012 WINEPRESS

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31

News From Home and Away Accolades Spiegelau International Wine Competition Of the 63 Gold medals awarded in this competition, 34 came to Marlborough wines – a massive shot in the arm for the region.

In terms of trophies it was almost a clean sweep of the whites, with five trophies awarded. Plus Marlborough took out Producer of the year as well.

Champion Wine Producer – Villa Maria Estate AND Mount Riley Champion Gewurztraminer – Distant Land 2011 Champion Pinot Gris – Mount Riley 2012 Champion Riesling – Giesen Marlborough, 2012 Champion Sauvignon Blanc – Whitehaven 2012 Champion Chardonnay – Nautilus 2011 New World Wine Awards Another big haul in terms of gold medals at this recent competition. Marlborough had 286 wines entered, and almost three quarters of those wines were awarded

either a Gold, Silver or Bronze medal. In total Marlborough won 19 golds.

New Zealand International Wine Show Four Trophies to Marlborough wines.

Champion Sauvignon Blanc – Saint Clair Pioneer Block 18 Snap Block 2012 Champion Sweet Wine – Riverby Estate Noble Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2011 Champion Pinot Gris AND Champion Commercial White Wine – Selaks Reserve Marlborough Pinot Gris 2012 Avenues International Aromatic Wine Competition Best Sauvignon Blanc Producer – Saint Clair Family Estate Irish Wine Show TIKI Estate Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2011 - Gold Star award and White Wine of the Year 2012-2013 in the Under €15 New World White Wine category New Wine Yealand’s Estate have released a new wine onto the market, based on

sauvignon Blanc, but red in colour. The wine Sauvignoir, is made primarily for Sauvignon Blanc, but is coloured by Teinturier, a Chilean red grape variety.

Peter Yealands says the Sauvignoir has “very much been made using traditional wine making practices and then blended with a small amount of Teinturier…. providing the resulting vibrant red colour.”

Sharpen Up DVDs This pruning DVD produced here in Marlborough is still available if you would like to obtain a copy. It is a fantastic introduction and teaching source for anyone wanting to educate potential pruners. Broken down into chapters, each aspect of pruning is well covered, from spur pruning through to trellising and mechanical stripping. If you are a member of NZWinegrowers the cost of the DVD is just $5. For non members the cost is $40. The DVD is available from the Wine Marlborough offices in Budge Street.

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Disclaimer: The views and articles that are expressed and appear in Winepress are those entirely those of contributors and in no way reflect the policy of the Marlborough Winegrowers. Any advice given, implied or suggested should be considered on its merits, and no responsibility can be taken for problems arising from the use of such information.

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The Official Magazine of Wine Marlborough

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