Held on the last Friday of March each year, Methode Marlborough Day celebrates the conclusion of the harvest for sparkling wines, which happens earlier than that for still wines. It champions the methode traditionelle wines crafted in Marlborough by the 12 wineries comprising the Methode Marlborough group.
Don’t expect to see the fruits of this year’s labours for a while yet though, as the methode traditionelle process is one of time and patience: we should see the first releases from this vintage beginning to appear in 2026. My best laid plans to taste the featured wines on the day went to custard, but like me you can still delve into the widely available current releases, including these three fine exemplars above.
Dunedin Urban Wine Walk
A bit of a heads-up in case you haven’t spotted it — the Dunedin Urban Wine Walk takes place on Saturday, April 27. Eight local venues are collaborating with eight South Island wineries (including five from Central Otago) to create eight urban cellar doors for the day.
The ticket price includes your tasting glass, three tastings at each venue, a food voucher and a voucher towards purchases on the day. There is no set route; you can start at whichever venue you prefer and amble on your own self-guided tour from venue to venue. Further info on social media with tickets available from Eventbrite.
Rifters Gin Cellar Door in Arrowtown
Taking time out in Arrowtown in the future? There is a new "must visit" opportunity if you are a gin lover. Local award-winning craft distillery Rifters has opened Arrowtown’s first gin-only tasting room. Situated in the historic Dudleys Cottage (by The Dishery, for those that know it) it opens Wednesday to Sunday year round. A great option to be able to try before you buy.
2018 Daniel le Brun Blanc de Blancs Methode Traditionelle
Rating Very Good to Excellent
Immediately fresh and
inviting, bready/yeasty
notes, citrus,
nectarine. In the
mouth, zesty contrast
between fruit
sweetness and racy
tanginess. Fruit to the
fore, nectarine, apple
and citrus nuances
with a nutty underlay.
Heart on it’s sleeve
stuff, bright, fresh, full
of appeal with a little
bittersweet quality on
the close adding to the
interest.
NV No 1 Family Estate No 1 Reserve Methode Traditionelle
Rating Outstanding
Lovely, engaging nose,
a deeper timbre,
savoury qualities,
toasty/biscuity notes,
dry honey, with a zesty
backdrop. Fills every
corner of the mouth
with flavour, candied
lemon, warm baguette,
something akin to
vanilla bean, lovely
balance and poise, the
flavours hanging on the
close. Clearly serious,
real drive and energy to
this as the acidity kicks
into gear.
NV Hunter’s Miru Miru Methode Traditionelle
Rating Excellent
A waft of smoke shifts to attractive
bready notes, fresh
fruit influences and a
savoury twist.
Generous in the
mouth, leading with
red apple and
stonefruit influences
with those bready,
toasty notes neatly
in support.
Wonderful balance
and integration here,
beautifully poised.
Fresh, vital, the
flavours resonating
nicely on the close.
Lots to enjoy.
