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 Price RRP $39.99 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. www.lionco.com NV No 1 Family Estate No 1 Reserve Methode Traditionelle Price RRP $96 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. www.no1familyestate.co.nz NV Hunter’s Miru Miru Methode Traditionelle Price RRP $31.90 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. www.hunters.co.nz
