The Shout NZ February 2021

NEW ZEALAND’S LARGEST LIQUOR AUDIENCE

FEBRUARY 2021 | www.theshout.co.nz

THE CRAFT ISSUE

The products and producers reshaping New Zealand’s spirits and beer sectors

contents

February 2021

30 The Shout NZ Editor, Charlotte Cowan

22

ONWARDS AND UPWARDS

I’m definitely not the only person who vigorously waved goodbye to 2020. Aside from an outstanding wine vintage, there wasn’t a lot of good that came out of the first year of the ‘20s for the liquor industry.

As we have eased our way into 2021, there is a new sense of optimism. This year has started off not too badly and fingers crossed it continues. As always, The Shout NZ is committed to supporting the liquor trade and providing the best information and advice we can to help make your business a successful one.

In our first issue of the year, we delve into the craft industry in New Zealand. Craft beer and spirits are a staple in any onand off-premise venue and the options are endless. On pgs 12-14 I chat to some experts about how Kiwi producers are going about perfecting the craft, and you can check out some outstanding locally produced spirits on pgs 16-19.

In the wine category, Master Sommelier Cameron Douglas was extra-busy this month with a huge amount of Sauvignon Blanc tastings. Take a look at the bumper tasting selection on pgs 22-29.

Plus, we have advice columns on everything from trends to follow in 2021, to choosing the right point of sale system, and understanding the local alcohol policies in your area.

If you have a story idea that you’d like to see in The Shout NZ, don’t hesitate to get in touch. My email is ccowan@intermedianz.co.nz and I am always keen to hear your thoughts. And don’t forget to follow us on social media @TheShoutNZ. Cheers to 2021.

12

33

4 INDUSTRY NEWS AND INSIGHTS 10 ON SHOW

22 SAUVIGNON BLANC

12 PERFECTING THE CRAFT

Beer writer Denise Garland explores the ever-increasing trend of low- and no-alcohol beer in New Zealand.

This month’s must-try classics and new releases Special report on the craft spirits and beer industry in New Zealand

Tasting notes from Cameron Douglas MS

30 LOW- AND NO-ALCOHOL BEER 33 SPOTLIGHT ON A LOCAL

20 FIVE MUST-WATCH DRINKS TRENDS

Ponsonby’s vintage travel-inspired bar, Brewport

Caro Jensen, co-founder of Sip NZ, predicts what will be big in alcoholic beverages in the coming year

POLICIES

FOR 2021

21 CHOOSING THE RIGHT POS FOR YOUR

34 LIQUOR, LAW AND LOCAL ALCOHOL Are you up to date with local alcohol policies? Legal experts from Russell McVeagh explain why you should be

LIQUOR BUSINESS

Vaughan Fergusson, Founder of Vend, shares tips for picking the most effective POS system for your off-premise business

PUBLISHED BY The Intermedia Group (NZ) Ltd PO Box 109 342, Newmarket, Auckland 1149 Managing Director Simon Grover Group Publisher Paul Wootton

Associate Publisher Craig Hawtin-Butcher craig@intermedia.com.au

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Editor Charlotte Cowan ccowan@intermedianz.co.nz ph 021 774 080

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For more amazing liquor news (and even a few giveaways), make sure you follow us on Instagram and Facebook @theshoutnz and sign up to our weekly eNewsletter at www.theshout.co.nz.

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THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021 3

news

WHAT’S ON

New distillery opens on Waiheke Island

February 12-14 GINCREDIBLE Wharepai Domain, Bay of Plenty www.bopginfestival.co.nz

A new gin distillery has opened its doors on Waiheke Island.

Founded by Liz Scott and Glen Cadwallader, Waiheke Distilling Co. is located on the ridge above Cowes Bay, a site chosen for its breath-taking beauty.

The pair constructed the new distillery so it blends in and reflects the farming history of the area.

“We were captivated by the heritage and soul of the area around Cowes Bay and were instantly drawn to this side of the island,” says Scott. “A big part of Waiheke Distilling Co.’s story is that we want to honour not only the history of this place but hero the local produce and botanicals that grow here. “[We have created] one of New Zealand’s only gin distilleries that people can visit and be part of the crafting experience.”

With its opening last month coinciding with the inaugural New Zealand Gin Day, Waiheke Distilling Co. showcased its first batch of spirits – Spirit of Waiheke, London Dry and Red Ruby Gin. Distiller and Co-founder Glen Cadwallader says botanicals are the heart and soul of Waiheke Distilling Co.’s gins and each variety has their own “curated blend of ingredients”.

Impact of COVID-19 on global wine tourism

February 13 WELLINGTON WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL Waitangi Park, Wellington www.wineandfoodfestival.co.nz February 27-28 GINDULGENCE Ilam Homestead, Christchurch www.gindulgence.co.nz March 7 NORTH CANTERBURY WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL Glenmark Domain, Waipara www.nzwineandfood.co.nz March 13 WAIRARAPA WINES HARVEST FESTIVAL ‘The Cliffs’, Wairarapa www.wairarapaharvestfestival.co.nz March 13 THE GREAT KIWI BEER FESTIVAL Claudelands Events Centre, Hamilton www.greatkiwibeerfestival.co.nz March 20 MARCHFEST Nelson www.marchfest.com

March 21 RIPE – THE WANAKA WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL Corbridge Estate, Wanaka www.ripewanaka.nz

Winetourism.com has released a report evaluating the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global wineries, as well as the wineries’ future perspective on wine tourism.

A survey was distributed to 10,080 wineries worldwide, including New Zealand, with answers collected from 1,203.

Results showed that COVID-19 has had an extremely large impact on the wine tourism business for wineries. More than 83% of wineries experienced a significant loss both in turnover and in the level of 4 THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021

international visitors received and most surveyed expected that wine tourism will return to pre-COVID levels no earlier than 2022. However, 80% across the world think that wine tourism will continue to grow in long term and 32% are planning to increase investment in wine tourism in the postpandemic period.

“Innovation is the keyword for the wineries to rebuild their operations, as well as to deal with future fluctuations of the market,” says the report. “Being innovative helped wineries to adapt their work to the

huge decline of international travel and maintain revenues.”

The report says that recovery of wine tourism from the COVID-19 pandemic is a good opportunity for wineries to focus more on sustainable ways of production and recover traditional farming practices. “An emphasis on local communities and shifting to domestic markets could also be in the recovery plan,” it says.

To read the full report, visit www.winetourism.com/impact-covid-19-winetourism/.

news

Digital solution launches to help Kiwi wineries expand export sales A new digital solution has launched in New Zealand this month, allowing wine producers to sell their premium wine direct to overseas consumers.

A New Zealand first, Wine Collective Direct provides a sales channel for producers, enabling Direct to International Consumer (DTiC) sales to support the future of the New Zealand wine industry.

“We’re delighted to be announcing this exciting development for the New Zealand wine industry at a critical time,” says Wine Collective Direct Founder, Grant Rimmer.

Rimmer says the impact of COVID-19 on the approximately 300 wine producers in New Zealand has seen a massive decline in international visitors that would traditionally visit for tastings, tours and Cellar Door purchases.

Grant Rimmer “On the cusp of what was set to be a record year for wine tourism, including a massive boost from the America’s Cup, New Zealand producers are now also heavily exposed by the void of international visitors,” he says. “Wine Collective Direct will exponentially extend their reach, helping them achieve high-return retail export sales within premium and ultra-premium market segments. Acting collectively, we are stronger, and will go further globally together.”

New Zealand wine producers are invited to register to the DTiC marketplace in February 2021 before it begins rolling out to international consumers.

The initial market launch at the end of March will include Australia and Hong Kong, followed by the UK and USA and additional global locations.

For more information visit www.winecollective.direct.

Super Liquor opens new South Island stores Super Liquor has announced the opening of two new Canterbury stores at Woolston and Rangiora.

Canterbury Liquor Woolston has been converted to a Super Liquor and opened midJanuary, and Liquor Centre Rangiora has been converted to a Super Liquor and opened early this month.

The new Super Liquor store owners say they are delighted to be able to offer customers the Super Liquor shopping experience and convenience in their local communities.

Super Liquor Franchise Manager for Canterbury & Upper South Island, Paul Webster, says the Super Liquor group continues to grow, and now boasts a network of 165 stores across the country.

“Opportunities exist nationwide for suitable franchisees to maximise their business through the power of the Super Liquor brand and franchise support,” he says.

Webster says he encourages experienced operators wanting the opportunity to become a franchisee to get in touch.

IWSR announces acquisition of Wine Intelligence

Global drinks market analysis company IWSR last month announced the acquisition of London-based Wine Intelligence, global experts on wine consumer research and insights.

Founded in 2002, Wine Intelligence conducts projects on behalf of wine businesses in more than 35 wine markets. IWSR says the acquisition enables the two teams to build a world-class consumer behaviour division focused exclusively on the global beverage alcohol industry.

“As COVID-19 reshapes consumer behaviour and beverage alcohol drinking occasions, industry stakeholders are looking for a deeper understanding of the consumer attitudes driving the market,” says Mark Meek, CEO of IWSR. “Our vision is shaped by our clients, and this acquisition is a tremendous opportunity for us to expand on our existing offerings and work with the Wine Intelligence team to provide the industry with access to comprehensive consumer insight across all categories of the drinks industry, including beer, wine, spirits and the ready-to-drink sector.”

The acquisition follows a decadelong relationship between IWSR and Wine Intelligence with recent collaborations including the IWSR COVID-19 Consumer Tracker.

THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021 5

industry insights

Predictions for 2021 As I gaze into my crystal ball, I feel optimism for 2021. 2020 was hard on our industry, impacting on-premise businesses in particular. However, I’m optimistic that our preparedness, resilience and adaptability puts us in good stead for any future uncertainties.

My crystal ball tells me in 2021 both ‘what’ we are drinking and ‘how’ we are drinking will influence trends. As a nation, we are drinking better than ever. A culture shift in attitudes and behaviours with less hazardous drinking and fewer younger people drinking shows we’re making better decisions around alcohol based on our circumstances, situation and lifestyle.

To thrive as an industry, we need to remain highly-focused on our customers and be responsive to their needs. An example of this is the growth of ‘better-for-me’ beverages.

A focus on health and wellbeing continues to drive consumer demand for low-carb, low-sugar, and low-alcohol drinks like seltzers, lighter wines and 0% beers.

We can expect the ‘premiumisation’ trend to grow. It’s about spending a little more on a quality drink – a craft beer, fine wine, cocktail or premium spirit or liqueur – then taking a sip and savour approach to enjoy the flavourful experience of your drink in a relaxed way.

Gin is still in, but rum and tequila will continue to become sophisticated spirits infused with bold spices or subtle botanicals. Customers will embrace functional cocktail ingredients associated with wellbeing, such as kombucha,

Bridget MacDonald Executive Director, New Zealand Alcohol Beverages Council turmeric or ginger. Travelling is through tastebuds, from exotic Peruvian pisco sours to Japanese-inspired matcha whiskey highballs. Premium mixers with herbal and botanical flavours will become more popular for discerning palates.

The new year will present more opportunities for creating a sustainable future for our industry. We will see sustainability as a touchstone to recognise our responsibilities, confront challenges, and find solutions by embracing new ways of thinking and doing. Already companies, both big and boutique, are committing to zero carbon emissions by changing manufacturing processes, rethinking logistics, using local suppliers and ingredients, innovating packaging and crafting new beverages. Everyone needs to play their part for a better and more sustainable tomorrow – from being a good employer, respecting our environment, to doing better for our customers. Our industry will strive to do its bit in 2021 and beyond.

The 2020 spirits snapshot Across the world, full strength spirits and RTDs (in particular hard seltzers) continue to lead the growth in total alcohol sales over wine, beer and cider. Growth is concentrated in the premium-and-above price segments in all categories except vodka. Gin and agave-based spirits lead the growth, both recording a 5.6% increase in volume between 2018-19, driven by cocktail culture. The impact of COVID-19 hit with a sharp shock of 8% volume loss of total beverage alcohol sales (in the 19 key countries surveyed) between 2019 and 2020. It is predicted that there will be a slow long-term recovery with volumes only reaching 2019 levels by 2024.

Encouragingly, there is a particular interest in local and craft gins in a growing number of markets, especially Nordic markets and Australasia. If we continue down the same path as our peer countries, the New Zealand spirits industry will give back significantly to our economy. As far back as 2012, MBIE formally identified that New Zealand’s spirits sector would be a powerhouse for tourism, job creation and export income. And we are on track. Bottle shops are struggling to fit all the new offerings onto their New Zealand-section shelving.

We have even seen a leap in the number of new distilleries in the last year, despite COVID-19.

The challenge for New Zealand is that we are increasingly seeing that our peer countries provide far more support for their spirits industries, and they are reaping the benefits. The

6 THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021

Sue James Chairperson, Distilled Spirits Aotearoa

UK spirits exports doubled in the last 20 years, with a tax reform turbocharging the industry. Over the last five years, the Scotch Whisky industry has invested more than $1B in capital investments and tourist centres, supporting 42,000 jobs. Australian distilleries can claim a refund of 60% of the excise duty paid to a maximum of $100,000 per financial year, especially benefitting smaller businesses. There are now more distilleries in Australia than in Scotland. In New Zealand, the very small amount of government support to the distilled spirits industry has been focused on the regions. PGF tourism and development loans have been awarded to Westcoast’s Reefton Distillery, Taranaki’s BeGin Distillery and a grant given to Southland’s Hokonui Moonshine Museum and Distillery. Now that the election is over, and the New Zealand Government can be less concerned about alcohol polarising voters, we need a broader action to support our industry as our distillers struggle to recover from COVID-19 and compete with waves of imports.

industry insights

A clean slate for 2021 On the 24th of December last year, many Kiwis collectively let out a sigh of relief, for most the work year was done and 2020 was tough. For the brewing and wider hospitality sector, this was no different. However, summer for many in the sector is the busiest time of year. And if there was any better year to make hay while the sun shines, it was 2020.

There were some glimmers of positivity towards the end of the year, with consumer demand increasing in the lead up to summer, but the impact of COVID-19 has a long tail and not just epidemiologically.

The full extent of the impact of COVID-19 on the brewing industry is yet to be determined. On-licence sales were most impacted by COVID-19, as both a lack of tourism and forced closure have impacted on-licenced establishments beyond imagine.

Data from the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research commissioned by the Brewers Association shows the closure of licenced establishments due to lockdown cost the industry an estimated $390 million in sales. This was offset by an increase in supermarket and liquor store sales by an additional $90 million over the June 2020 quarter.

Over the coming year, the industry faces reduced demand from international visitors. But the recently announced roll out

Dylan Firth Executive Director, Brewers Association of New Zealand

of vaccines and possible bubbles with our biggest tourism market Australia gives some hope for the second half of the year. COVID-19 related border closures have reduced tourist numbers to a trickle, prior to COVID-19, tourists spent $400 million on beer each year.

So, while many in the sector have had to ‘pivot’ or embrace ‘the new normal’, the wider economic outlook is slightly better than expected, giving hope for a quick recovery for many. The biggest risk we face is the longer term negative economic factors that could impact peoples discretionary spend. Optimism is high, but 2021’s winter might be longer for some than others.

Barker and Quin Finest Mixers are made from natural ingredients and spring water to bring you a premium mixing experience.

Made in Paarl, South Africa and now available in New Zealand.

Let the journey begin! barkerandquin.co.nz

THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021 7

industry insights

No one could have predicted the way the world would change in 2020 It was a year like no other – one where words like “unprecedented” and “pivot” became part of our daily vocabulary. The impact of the pandemic on New Zealand wine exports was not what we expected either, as we saw international demand for New Zealand wine surge, a 20% increase in exports, and total export value hit a record-breaking $2 billion in October 2020. This milestone reflected the appreciation that the world has for New Zealand wine, and reinforced our international reputation for a distinct and premium product - as people chose wines they knew they could trust.

LIGHTER WINE Looking ahead one of the trends we are seeing is consumers becoming increasingly focused on their health and well-being, and this in turn impacting their buying decisions. COVID-19 has already accelerated this wellness trend, resulting in an increase in the lighter wine category (defined as “wines containing less than 10% alcohol by volume”). In the seven years since the New Zealand Lighter Wines programme launched, we have seen the development and refinement of high-quality, full flavoured, lighter in alcohol wines. This innovative category of wine will help cater to the increasing number of consumers who sometimes wish to moderate their alcohol consumption, yet still enjoy a glass of premium New Zealand wine.

2021 VINTAGE After getting through 2020’s harvest during Level 4 lockdown, the next big challenge for the New Zealand wine industry is an anticipated labour shortage for the 2021 Vintage. This is a real worry for some regions.

Encouragingly, 2000 workers were granted access into New Zealand from January, to help with harvest and pruning

8 THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021

Philip Gregan Chief Executive Officer, New Zealand Winegrowers

work during 2021, in wine and horticulture. We are working constructively with the Government to source the labour we need, at the time we need it, and ensure we can continue to make our world-renowned wine.

SUSTAINABILITY GUARDIANS In the years ahead, caring for our place and our people will be more important than ever. The recent launch of our Sustainability Guardians programme drives us even further in our commitment to achieving a better and more sustainable future for all. Whilst the programme is still in its preliminary stages, the focus is on helping build the relevance of sustainability through peer-to-peer collaboration and innovation, whilst giving our members the ability to be recognised for their efforts.

VISIT THE VINES As I write, New Zealanders are not currently able to escape on overseas holidays, and so are inspired instead to get out and explore their own backyard. In late 2020, we launched a domestic wine tourism campaign ‘Visit the Vines’ to inspire New Zealanders to Sip, Dine, Stay and Play - taste in our winery cellar doors, enjoy a long lunch in our restaurants, stay in luxury vineyard accommodation, and discover our wine regions. With the smaller volume of visitors, wineries are changing their cellar door experience, and have more time to spend engaging in one-on-one tastings. Domestic sales data shows us that people are still making the effort to get out and support or shop local, and we hope to see this only increase through the summer months and beyond.

IT TAKES T WO TO TINK

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product showcase

THOMSON WHISKY MANUKA SMOKE SINGLE MALT Made from New Zealand grown malted barley, smoked using native Manuka wood, and distilled through the copper pot stills at the Thomson Whisky craft distillery, this is one of New Zealand’s most awarded single malt whiskies.

Head distiller Mat Thomson started tinkering with a recipe around 16 years ago, toasting malted barley on his BBQ at home, playing with different smoke levels, and running the spirit through a small home still. Upscaling his experiments onto his industrial copper pot stills years later, he has honed and perfected a unique New Zealand style of whisky that delivers an elegant smokiness, luscious mouthfeel and a distinct flavour of home. Tasting notes include natural smoke, cinnamon, clove, and Manuka oils. Awarded Best New Zealand Whisky at The New Zealand Whisky Awards, aka The Drammy’s, 2020.

RRP $105.00, 700ml, 46% ABV Contact: (027) 626 6364 www.thomsonwhisky.com

BLUME KOMBUCHA COOLER Blume’s Kombucha Cooler is hand crafted with only real ingredients, no compromises. Made with award-winning organic kombucha by Batchwell, cold pressed juice, triple distilled spirits and a splash of sparkling water, Blume is low in sugar and free from artificial flavours, additives or sweeteners. Dairy and gluten free and available in three amazing flavours: Vodka, Apple & Mint , Gin, Cucumber & Lemon and Vodka, Pineapple & Ginger.

RRP $19.99, four-pack of cans, 4% ABV Contact: EuroVintage on (0800) 338 766 or info@eurovintage.co.nz www.eurovintage.co.nz www.blumecooler.com

w o h s n o This

VICTOR GIN ORIGINAL A heavy botanical style gin, hand crafted at the Thomson Whisky distillery. The team at Thomson has developed this stripped-back gin, utilising only the fresh gin botanicals they love, at full noise. Juniper, citrus, lemongrass, cardamom and coriander – all delicious flavour tones, uniquely decipherable, that hum together with nowhere to hide.

Awarded Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2019.

RRP $75.00, 700ml, 42% ABV Contact: (027) 626 6364 www.thomsonwhisky.com 10 THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021

ry clas

must-t month’s

leases.

ew re n d n a s sic

TAYLOR’S CHIP DRY WHITE APERITIF Taylor’s was the first to pioneer dry white aperitif port. Chip Dry White Port was first blended in 1934, since then it has acquired a devoted following throughout the world.

Chip Dry is made from selected dry white ports produced from grapes grown in the Douro Superior (the eastern area of the Douro Valley). Although several white grape varieties are used, the Malvasia Fina grape predominates. Chip Dry is produced using the traditional port wine vinification method, brandy being added to the must to halt fermentation and to preserve some of the grape’s natural sugar in the finished wine. In the case of Chip Dry, the brandy is added later, when much of the sugar has been converted into alcohol, producing a port of unusual dryness. The individual wines are matured separately in oak vats for between four and five years and are then blended together shortly before bottling to give balance and character.

RRP $39.99, 750ml Contact: (0800) 699 4636 or sales@hancocks.co.nz www.hancocks.co.nz

BEER PILSNER LOW CARB ISBJØRN LITE MACK Isbjørn LOW CARB is low in gluten, has 70% fewer carbohydrates and 30% less sugar than classic Isbjørn but has the same great taste.

A great accompaniment to any BBQ or light meat.

RRP $3.49 each, 500ml, 4.5% ABV Contact: (0800) 111 828 or ask@qll.co.nz www.qll.co.nz

craft

PERFECTING THE

With more breweries and distilleries popping up than ever before, can New Zealand maintain such a crowded craft market? Charlotte Cowan asks the experts.

12 THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021

the craft issue

i

t seems that there are many liquor categories that have ‘exploded’ over the past year or two. Lowand no-alcohol beers (see pgs 30-32), hard seltzers, organic wine… whether these are just the latest trends and will taper off, only time will tell, but the category that seems to have maintained a steady rise and shows no signs of stopping both locally and internationally is craft beer and spirits.

Craft is a term that is thrown around quite a bit. So what exactly defines a craft spirit or beer? According to the IWSR, craft spirits in the US are products “made by licensed producers that have not more than 750,000 proof gallons (or 394,317 nine-litre cases) and who market themselves as craft”. According to the Brewers Association of America, the definition of craft beer is much simpler – it is beer made by “a small, independent brewer”. ‘Small’ meaning six million barrels or less are produced each year, and ‘independent’ meaning “less than 25% of the craft brewery is owned or controlled by a beverage alcohol industry member that is not itself a craft brewer”.

The Brewers Association of America says that the “hallmark of craft beer and craft brewers is innovation” and the category encompasses beer made with “interesting and sometimes non-traditional ingredients [that] are often added for distinctiveness”.

CRAFT SPIRITS IN NEW ZEALAND In New Zealand, the term ‘craft’ is more subjective. We don’t have a specific number which determines whether a beer or spirit can be placed in the craft category and Sue James, Chairperson of Distilled Spirits Aotearoa, says their organisation shies away from defining New Zealand distillers as craft.

“Positively, the word craft can be associated with quirky, down-toearth, innovative and local,” she told The Shout NZ. “But negatively, it can be associated with less professional, transient and random quality.”

James says the majority of the DSA’s members see themselves as valid competition to imported big brand spirits.

“And so we call ourselves New Zealand distillers, not New Zealand craft distillers,” she says.

James also says New Zealand spirits are typically independently owned, so not easily split into craft and noncraft categories.

“We are different to beer in that there are very few of the big national corporates producing spirits here,” she says.

“Therefore, while New Zealand beer can be divided into big (corporates like DB and Lion) and small (craft); New Zealand distillers are all small to medium.”

The medium players include 12-15 “powerhouse brands”, says James, including Cardrona Distillery, Juno Gin, Dancing Sands, Kiwi Spirits, Reefton Distilling Co, Broken Heart Spirits, 1919 Distilling and Curiosity Gin. “These are dominant not only due to their size, but also because they have been around for more than three to four years, and they have secured a distributor or have their own sales team, they have cellar doors and set ups for tourist visits,” says James.

“Smaller distilleries are less than threeyears-old and they are still establishing their brands.” James says there are approximately 65 smaller distillers in New Zealand and the number is growing at one to two new distilleries per month.

She says that while there have been no big corporate takeovers of promising, independent brands as of yet, this is likely to happen imminently as the big players try to make a genuine presence in New Zealand through New Zealand brands.

THE SPIRITS STATS ▶ There are approximately

100 distilleries in New Zealand, an increase of 206% since 2015. ▶ Spirits account for

$402 million

in sales, contributing the highest growth for the alcohol category of

▶ Gin contributed with

26.6%.

$70 million in sales

51.6% growth.

▶ Liquor stores and hospitality businesses account for around the volume and value of all alcohol sales in New Zealand.

half

Sources: Nielsen (MAT 22 November 2020 Nielsen Scan - Defined Liquor Like for Like), Statistics NZ (Alcohol available for consumption: September 2020 quarter)

“THERE IS NO REASON WHY NEW ZEALAND MADE SPIRITS PRODUCERS CAN’T FOLLOW IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE WINE INDUSTRY TO BECOME INTERNATIONALLY RESPECTED AND ADMIRED PLAYERS.” MATT BRIDGE, LUNATIC & LOVER. THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021 13

the craft issue

“WE ARE DIFFERENT TO BEER IN THAT THERE ARE VERY FEW BIG NATIONAL CORPORATES PRODUCING SPIRITS HERE.” SUE JAMES, DISTILLED SPIRITS AOTEAROA.

Island Gin

Andi Ross, Head Distiller and Founder of Island Gin, says that - aside from supply of ingredients - the biggest challenges for a small distillery is competing with those “powerhouse brands”. “One of the biggest challenges is having cut through in a tough market - competing with big players who have deep pockets for marketing, promotion and distribution,” she says.

Ross says in order to stand out from the crowd when you bring a new spirit into the New Zealand marketplace, you need to offer something unique and sustainable.

“Increasingly it is important to be sustainable,” she says. “I mean, why would any brand not be sustainable? Truly authentic brands have a sense of place that denotes a deeper connection to the land, the environment. This to me is a quintessentially New Zealand outlook as well,” she says. “It has taken Island Gin three years to launch with sustainability at the forefront - we pushed hard to get our kina-inspired bottle to be produced in Auckland.” Island Gin’s bottle, which is made of reclaimed glass and packaged on a solar-powered packaging line, recently 14 THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021

Sue James, Chairperson of Distilled Spirits Aotearoa

won the New Zealand Innovation Award at the NZ Spirits Awards 2020.

Matt Bridge, founder of Lunatic & Lover, agrees that authenticity is the key when it comes to being noticed in the spirits category.

“Make sure the liquid you’re putting in the bottle is worthy of people’s attention and then make sure you have a coherent, well designed and thoroughly thought out brand proposition that’s authentic and true to your values,” he says. “One without the other isn’t going to cut the mustard in a crowded market.”

Lunatic & Lover, which produces botanical rum, was launched eearly in 2020 - a brave idea during a global pandemic.

“We certainly played through a lot of worst case scenarios in our heads,” says Bridge. “[But] we decided that after all was said and done, our concept was solid and we should have the courage of our convictions and just go for it, irrespective of the circumstances.”

Matt Bridge, founder of Lunatic & Lover

Bridge says he is “tremendously optimistic and excited” by the potential of the spirits industry in New Zealand. “Given the amazing natural resources available, coupled with abundant the creativity of the people, there is no reason why New Zealand made spirits producers can’t follow in the footsteps of the wine industry to become internationally respected and admired players,” he says.

But while Bridge encourages Kiwis to turn their distilling dreams into reality, he is careful to warm people not to underestimate the amount of work and commitment involved and that quality should always be at the forefront.

“If we want people to enjoy and embrace the craft spirits movement here in New Zealand then we, as producers need to do our part and make sure that we’re producing genuinely excellent and innovative spirits,” he says.

CRAFT BEER IN NEW ZEALAND According to the latest Brewing in New Zealand report, there are 257 breweries in New Zealand – 11 of which have opened in the past year. That is more breweries per 10,000 people (0.51) than the United Kingdom (0.42), Australia (0.29) and the United States (0.23). It’s fair to say, there is a lot of beer out there.

But can we put a label on ‘craft beer’ in this country?

According to beer expert, writer and judge, Michael Donaldson, the term ‘craft beer’ was originally an evolution from the microbrewery and indicated an independent, small-batch, owner-brewer or local business. That, in turn, added up to ‘quality and creativity’ when it came to beer production. However, Donaldson says that some of the breweries we instantly think of as ‘craft’ are not small at all, in fact some are huge, by New Zealand standards.

“So craft as a stand-in for microbrewery has lost its meaning,” he told The Shout NZ. “If you consider alt-country and alt-rock music, then to me craft is alt-beer – it’s almost defined by what it’s not and in New Zealand that’s not Lion Red, Tui, Speight’s etc.

“To quote The Castle, I think craft is a vibe,” says Donaldson. “It’s a feeling you get when you look at a brand and see good things they represent, taste a beer and enjoy the aroma and flavours (rather than guzzle it quickly), talk about it as something interesting and innovative and share it with friends or even on Facebook and Instagram to create a sense of community.”

Dylan Firth, Executive Director of the Brewers Association of New Zealand,

the craft issue

Jesse Sigurdsson, Head Brewer at Shining Peak Brewing

“IF YOU CONSIDER ALT-COUNTRY AND ALT-ROCK, THEN TO BE CRAFT IS ALT-BEER.” MICHAEL DONALDSON agrees and says in his personal view, “there is no real definition of craft”.

However, for the purpose of gathering data, the Brewing in New Zealand report’s data on craft beer included smaller breweries, plus those owned by large corporations, such as Panhead.

According to the report, there has been a strong demand for craft beer in New Zealand, with sales increasing 14% over the year.

When it comes to variety, classic beer styles still dominate supermarket sales at 45%, followed by Lagers of the world at 33% and craft and 12%. However, due to the impact of COVID-19, the New Zealand brewing industry has lost $300 million in sales in 2020.

(wholesale included) to a different local charity or organisation every month,” says Sigurdsson. “We have recently passed $50,000.00 in donations back to our Taranaki community since we opened.”

Michael Donaldson believes that over the next five years the craft beer market in New Zealand will continue to grow, but in different directions and at difference levels.

“At the small end, [there will be an] increasing number of brewpubs and local suburban taprooms with their own beer on tap,” he says. “At the top end, [there will be] more rationalisation on supermarket shelfs as pack sizes increase.

“A while ago it was hard for many to “Most sales are kegs to bars, restaurants make six-packs at a competitive price and the like, so another lockdown that but as demand grows and good beer shut those hospitality outlets would be becomes more mainstream we’re already devastating,” says Donaldson. seeing ‘craft’ breweries responding to With so many craft (or alt-beer) those people’s shopping habits with options available and the number of the introduction of 10 and 12-packs of breweries growing exponentially yearcans,” he says. “The more of these that on-year, one of the biggest challenges come online, the less room craft brewers face is how to there will be on shelves, so differentiate themselves as the we’ll end up with a small category becomes more and number of breweries with more crowded. those strong relationships “Gone are the days with supermarkets.” when a solid core offering The future of the craft with seasonal innovation movement in New Zealand is could maintain a brewery’s uncertain, as is what 2021 will popularity,” says a report bring. But the general feeling from the IWSR. “The beer amongst producers and category is stepping outside industry experts is positive. traditional beer production There may be a lot to drink, styles to entice consumers to but New Zealanders are stay within the category. New drinking it. And consumers products include hard seltzers are embracing authenticity, and crossover products, such Shining Peak Brewing’s as Rosé and cocktail-inspired Fanny Fanthom’s Lager uniqueness and local flavour. ■ beers.” The New World Beer & Cider Awards has even added new categories for hazy IPAs, supermarketcompliant seltzers and alcoholic kombuchas for the 2021 competition.

“If I look back five years ago, the idea ▶ Craft beer accounts for million in sales of seltzers, hazies, and no- or low-alcohol beer were not on the horizon,” says with growth .

Donaldson, who is also Head Judge of the New World Beer & Cider Awards.

Jesse Sigurdsson, Head Brewer and ▶ Craft Pale Ales contributes million in sales Director of Beer at Taranaki’s Shining with growth and million in value.

Peak Brewing, says the brewing industry has been facing a “pretty serious oversaturation issue” for the last few years. ▶ Craft beer has seen significant increase in both Launching in April 2019 with seven beers, Shining Peak Brewing focuses heavily on value and volume, growing for value and quality and freshness and brewing beer for volume. true to style, says Sigurdsson.

But the brewery has one significant point of difference which helps them stand Source: Nielsen (MAT 22 November 2020 Total Nielsen Scan (Supermarkets, 4 Square and Defined Liquor Stores) out in the crowded market.

“We donate 5% of all our beer revenue

THE BEER STATS

15.8%

22%

15%

Michael Donaldson

$220

$70 $12.8

16%

THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021 15

the craft issue | sponsored New to the market, Fling Cocktails aren’t your usual vodka/soda combination. These single serve cocktails are bar-style and use real ingredients which is what sets them aside from the rest.

Created in the Hawke’s Bay by former Brits, Ben and Emma Connelly, Fling Cocktails are available in two ready-to-pour cocktails – Mojito and Margarita. The Classic Mojito is made with fresh Hawke’s Bay lime juice infused with garden mint, giving you a punchy refreshing drink, perfect for a hot summer’s day. And the Classic Margarita is fresh and zingy, combining the tang of lime juice and sweet Agave, it’s sure to quench your thirst and leave you wanting more.

They’re the perfect option for on-premise venues that want to offer something more than the usual beer and wine but don’t want the hassle of making cocktails. The Fling motto is simple: Real cocktails. Real ingredients.

Made by real-ish Kiwis. It’s a bartender in a can! Watch out for a new flavour before summer is over.

COCKTAILS

www.f l i ng co c kta ils.co.nz Fo l l ow us : @fa ncya f ling

Fling Cocktails are distributed by Copper Knox in cases of 6 x four-packs (250ml cans 5% ABV) RRP from $17.99 Contact: hello@copperknox.com www.flingcocktails.co.nz

the craft issue | sponsored

Vesta Taranaki’s Juno Gin has announced the release of its newest spirit – Vesta Vodka.

A collaboration between Begin Distilling (makers of Juno Gin) and Ozone Coffee Roasters, Vesta Vodka is batch distilled coffee vodka made using high quality natural process coffee beans from Ethiopia, with notes of blackberry, raspberry and dark chocolate. It’s the perfect accompaniment to an espresso martini.

Named for Vesta - the Goddess of Hearth and Fire in the Roman Pantheon - and sister to Juno, together Vesta Vodka and Juno Gin bring a range of spirits unparalleled in flavour and authenticity, with Vesta Vodka playing homage to the aspect of heat and fire.

VODKA

Prior to being released in New Zealand, Vesta Vodka was awarded a Silver Medal at the prestigious 2020 London International Wine & Spirits Competition.

“This award means a lot to us,” says Jo James, co-founder of Juno Gin. “Particularly because our focus has been gin. But to diversify and try something new and claim an award in vodka is confirmation for us that our distilling processes are recognised on the world stage.”

Vesta Vodka is available to order online RRP $82.00 Contact: (027) 837 1155 www.junogin.com

the craft issue | sponsored

divergence WHISKY

Sitting tucked away in Sydenham, Central Christchurch, The Spirits Workshop Distillery has been busy developing New Zealand craft spirits for more than four years.

Launched in 2016, Curiosity Gin is now well established and features five gins in the range, and the team has been making whisky for just as long. It’s only because it takes years aging in barrels to mature into a real Single Malt Whisky ready to be enjoyed, that it is just now on the market.

Divergence Single Malt NZ Whisky was released in late 2020. Made from 100% Canterbury grown and malted barley, distilled in Christchurch and aged mainly in small oak barrels. The standard expression is Virgin French Oak, aged in previously unused French oak barrels. The current bottling has nearly four years in the barrel and was awarded a Bronze Medal at the 2020 NZ Spirits awards.

To date four different single cask expressions have also been bottled, including an expression fully aged in an ex-Pinot Noir cask, as well as a barrel strength bottling finished in the barrels the distillery uses to make its well-known Sloe Gin. Perfecting the different expressions as they are ready for release and distilling more whisky to refill the stocks of barrels keeps these distillers busy.

2021 promises more experimenting with the craft.

After more than four years of searching, they have finally got their hands on a small selection of ex-New Zealand fortified wine barrels (port, in this case) to fill.

In the pipeline there are a number of different origin casks, developing nicely in the barrel store, that could be ready to release during the year.

Divergence Whisky is distributed by the team at Beverage Brothers RRP $110 Contact: (022) 382 2071 www.beveragebrothers.co.nz

THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021 19

trend report

trends 2021

FIVE MUSTWATCH DRINKS

FOR

Caro Jensen, co-founder of Sip NZ and Drinkfo.com, predicts what will be big in alcoholic beverages in the coming year. f we have learnt one thing from 2020, it’s that the future is unpredictable. With so much change happening, it can be hard to predict trends - but looking at the research and forecasts that have been released to date, the following five trends will most likely influence the way consumers enjoy and shop for alcoholic drinks in 2021.

i

READY-TO-DRINK The RTD market has grown exponentially and the on-trade closures of 2020 gave the category further momentum. Beers and wines are no longer the only beverages that come pre-packaged in smaller bottles and cans, postfriendly sachets and other innovative packaging formats are being added to the mix.

According to a report by Mordor Intelligence, the global RTD market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 6.1% during the forecast period 2020-2025.

In terms of consumer preferences, RTDs in particular resonate with global consumers who are increasingly showing a propensity for refreshing, flavourful and longer-to-consume drinks. Much of the volume growth in the US, for example, is driven by hard seltzers, which are seen by many US consumers as offerings that tap into health & wellness cues, such as lower ABV, low-carb or low-sugar, according to IWSR’s recent drinks market analysis.

TRANSPARENCY TRIUMPHS As consumers gain access and better understanding of product information, and production methods, companies will be pushed to produce information that is clear, concise and transparent in order to promote trust between consumer and a brand.

According to Lu Ann Williams, Director of Insights and Innovation at Innova Market Insights: “Transparency throughout the supply chain will dominate in 2021, with consumers searching for brands that can build trust, Caro Jensen provide authentic and credible 20 THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021

products and create shopper confidence in the current and post-COVID climate.”

DIGITAL, DIRECT, DELIVERED With some distribution channels shut down overnight in 2020, many producers have focused their attention to growing their business via online retailers, website sales and direct customer databases – heavily supported by digital marketing initiatives. Brands who have quickly made the switch and embraced digital and direct channels will likely reap the rewards in 2021. Speedy delivery options and curb-side pickups will also continue to grow to satisfy consumers’ thirst for convenience. “Ghost bars” are likely to pop up in delivery apps, offering consumers innovative and engaging ways to shop from the comfort of their home.

DRINK PINK New Zealand Rosé is now the fourth largest wine export at 5.6 million litres, according to NZ Winegrowers. It is behind Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris but beating Chardonnay for the first time by 1 million litres in 2020. The rise of Rosé is far from over and consumers will be fizzing with excitement about some pink product launches in 2021. Get ready for Pink Prosecco, Rosé Champagne, spritzers and even more pretty-in-pink gins and vodkas.

OCCASION OPPORTUNITIES According to Wine Intelligence, wine drinkers across key consumption markets have been turning more often to wine as a beverage during the COVID-19 pandemic. These new ‘lockdown’ occasions and more drinking outside of mealtimes offer opportunities for innovative brands to tie their products to new and specific occasions. ■

“SPEEDY DELIVERY OPTIONS AND CURB-SIDE PICKUPS WILL ALSO CONTINUE TO GROW TO SATISFY CONSUMERS’ THIRST FOR CONVENIENCE.”

CHOOSING THE RIGHT

POS

off-premise

FOR YOUR LIQUOR BUSINESS

Vaughan Fergusson, Founder of point of sale and retail management software company Vend, shares tips for picking the most effective POS system for your off-premise liquor business.

y

ou can’t run a liquor store without a solid point of sale system, which is why it’s essential that you equip yourself with the

INTEGRATIONS Choose a POS system that ‘plays nice’ with your other business tools. Things like your accounting software, payment processor, as well as ecommerce, and delivery apps work better if they’re tightly integrated with your point of sale.

POS integrations reduce data entry to streamline your processes and reduce human error. So, make sure your point of sale system can easily connect with other applications. Vend connects with leading software such as Xero, BigCommerce and MailChimp.

right solution.

To that end, here are the steps you should take to find the best liquor store POS for your business.

DETERMINE YOUR NEEDS There are numerous point of sale solutions in the market, so finding one can get overwhelming if you don’t know exactly what you need. That’s why the first step is to figure out your POS requirements. Look at the following areas of your business to determine your needs.

RESEARCH SOLUTIONS Once you know your requirements, the next step is to find solutions that fit your needs. Aside from Googling different companies, we recommend taking the following steps: • Check review websites: Websites such as Merchant Maverick, Trustpilot, and Capterra are great sources of ratings and reviews from users and software experts.

Be sure to read the comments section, as they often contain input from existing users of the software.

• Ask other retailers: Check out other liquor stores and ask their staff about their POS system and their experience with the software. You can also do this online by joining LinkedIn and Facebook communities dedicated to liquor retail.

LIQUOR SALES You need a POS system that will lend itself well to liquor sales. For example, if you’re selling beer and wine over the counter, your POS should have features like age verification to ensure that all shoppers are of legal drinking age.

IN-STORE EXPERIENCE Consider the customer experience your store will provide. Will you serve shoppers behind the counter or process transactions on the sales floor? Set your sights on POS systems that can fit well with your store’s set-up. If you plan to stay behind the counter, then a Mac or PC-based solution may work well for you. On the other hand, if you prefer being on the sales floor, then an iPad POS is a good option. Or better yet, choose a POS that can do it all. Vend, for example, works on Mac, iPad, and PC, so it fits well with different retail set-ups.

INVENTORY MANAGEMENT AND REPORTING You can’t make money if you don’t have the right products. Your point of sale system should give you tools to track your inventory and keep your liquor store stocked with items your customers love.

If you have a large catalogue, look into

systems with bulk upload features so you can enter all your products at once. Do you like to bundle your items together? Choose a system that makes it easy to sell items in groups. Inventory reporting is another critical consideration. Choose a solution that offers real-time visibility into your sales, stock levels, and product performance.

Vaughan Fergusson

“CHOOSE A POS SYSTEM THAT ‘PLAYS NICE’ WITH YOUR OTHER BUSINESS TOOLS.”

TEST YOUR POS When you’ve narrowed down your software options, it’s time to see the POS systems in action. Most providers offer free trials and live demos, so get in touch with the software companies you’re considering and sign up for their offerings. Take advantage of your trial or demo to really get to know the software. Use this time to ask questions and explore the platform, then determine if it’s the right system for your liquor business. ■ THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021 21

n o n g i v u a s c n a bl BY

t

he backbone of the New Zealand wine sector is Sauvignon Blanc. The demand for this precious commodity is growing internationally and while this excellent for the reputation of New Zealand wine, it comes with several challenges - not the least of which is maintaining quality, expectation of style(s) and pricing.

Sauvignon Blanc is relatively easy to ripen in most regions around Aotearoa and its signature herbaceous, citrus and tropical fruit aromas, along with piercing acidity, are recognisable with most examples. At volume, however, this can begin to dilute flavours and complexity - so one of the challenges for the industry as demand increases will be quality at higher volumes.

Farming practices, specific spray programmes and preservatives will also be tested as the demand for vegan-friendly, organic and bio-dynamic wines increase.

Generally, 2020 is an excellent year for Sauvignon Blanc, with an increase in plantings, crush, fruit quality,

ripeness and flavour. Nearly all of the early-release wines tasted have punched above their weight (some well above) in terms of concentration, purity, balance and complexity.

Marlborough remains the largest regional producer of Sauvignon Blanc, followed

by Hawke’s Bay, Nelson, Gisborne, North Canterbury and the Wairarapa.

Style-wise, Sauvignon Blanc is evolving - I notice more texture and mouthfeel and layering from lees contact, skin-contact for some, use of older barrels of varying sizes for ferment, ageing or both.

The classic pungent, fresh herbaceous and tropical fruit style expected of this variety is easily on show for many of the wines, but even these are showing more purity from vine-age and what is clearly a remarkably good vintage. The technique of pied de cuve (vineyard ferment) is proving to be a valuable technique, producing wines with more depth and character, site expression as well as texture and flavour.

Other recent tastings of Sauvignon Blanc demonstrate it is becoming an age-worthy wine.

S MS

UGLA O D N O R E CAM

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Cameron Douglas is New Zealand’s first and only Master Sommelier. An experienced wine writer, commentator, judge, reviewer, presenter and consultant, he is academically in charge of the Wine and Beverage Programme at AUT University in Auckland and is Patron of the New Zealand Sommeliers and Wine Professionals Association. Douglas consults to a variety of establishments, taking care of their wine lists, wine and food pairings, and staff training matters and he currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Court of Master Sommeliers Americas.

22 THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021

tasting notes GREYWACKE MARLBOROUGH WILD SAUVIGNON 2018 Complex, flinty, mineral, wild, earthy and varietal. Aromas and flavours of peach and preserved lemon, tropical flowers and grapefruit, hay, fresh herb and fruit spice.

Distinctive texture with a fine lees, medium+ acidity and mineral mouthfeel leading to flavours that reflect the bouquet. Expressive and complex, lengthy and delicious. A fascinating wine to add to your collection.

Best drinking from today and through 2026.

Points 96 RRP $38.50 Distributor: Negociants Phone: (03) 572 5425 www.greywacke.com

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2 ASTROLABE TAIHOA MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2019 Ripe, pure, complex and developing with a core of tropical and local orchard fruits, a fine toasty leesy layer and enticing minerality. Lovely on the palate with a mealy finely textured mouthfeel, flavours of peach, apple and tropical fruits then herbs and leesy autolysis. Well made with a very lengthy finish. Delicious! Drink now and through 2025+.

Points 96 RRP $37.00 Distributor: Astrolabe Wines Phone: (03) 577 6794 www.astrolabewines.co.nz ASTROLABE KEKERENGU COAST MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2019 Complex and pure with aromas of ripe citrus and dried herbs, sea salt and stony minerals, green mango and white peach. On the palate - savoury, crunchy, fresh, herbaceous, saline and fruity. Youthful, well made and lengthy with a dry finish. A lovely example ready to enjoy from today and through 2026.

Points 95 RRP $30.00 Distributor: Astrolabe Wines Phone: (03) 577 6794 www.astrolabewines.co.nz

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GREYSTONE WINES ORGANIC WAIPARA VALLEY SAUVIGNON BLANC 2019 Fruit-centric with wild herbs and mineral undertones, aromas of fresh gooseberry and pineapple, basil and silty mineral soil suggestions. Just dry on the palate with the core of fruit driving the flavours - pineapple and apple, lemon and gooseberry. Plenty of refreshing acidity with a light salty edge. Well made, crisp, refreshing, balanced and ready.

Best drinking from today and through 2026.

Points 95 RRP $28.00 Distributor: Procure Liquor Phone: (03) 314 6100 www.greystonewines.co.nz

4

GREYWACKE MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Seductive bouquet of wild flowers and minerals, a fine leesy complexity and fresh fruit aromas of citrus and stone fruit tea, then sweet hay. Crisp, refreshing, fruity and dry with flavours and textures that mirror the nose. Just enough concentration of flavour to contrast the fresh herb attributes and salivating acidity. Well-made and lengthy. Best drinking from today and through 2028.

Points 95 RRP $28.00 Distributor: Negociants Phone: (03) 5725 425 www.greywacke.com

5

LAWSON’S DRY HILLS RESERVE MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Fantastic bouquet, complex and intriguing with aromas of spice and ripe stone fruit, baked citrus and a seam of minerality. The herbaceousness is fine and layered through the bouquet with dried and fresh herb scents.

Delicious on the palate with flavours that mirror the nose, mineral and barrel spice layers with a fine lees autolysis. The finish is long with a saline silky mouthfeel. Drinking well now and through 2025+.

Points 95 RRP $25.00 Distributor: EuroVintage Phone: (0800) 338 766 www.lawsonsdryhills.co.nz

6

VILLA MARIA SINGLE VINEYARD TAYLORS PASS MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2019 Pure, focused and complex bouquet with aromas of ripe white-fleshed orchard fruits, a core of citrus and minerality, herbs and fruit spices and a fine lees layer. Tense, youthful and dry on the palate with flavours of citrus and green pear, Meyer lemon and apple. Fresh herbs, lees and stony mineral flavours are persistent carried through by acidity. Complex, tense and youthful finish. An exciting example. Drink now and through 2026+.

Points 95 RRP $29.99 Distributor: Villa Maria Estate Ltd Phone: (09) 255 0660 www.villamaria.co.nz

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ASTROLABE AWATERE VALLEY SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Ripe, fruity, varietal and enticing with a core of citrus and fresh white-fleshed fruit aromas - a quiet savoury dried herb aroma adds depths and intrigue. Lovely collection of textures and flavours on the palate reflecting the bouquet with citrus and barely sugar, apple, fresh herb and tropical fruit. Lovely long finish. Best drinking from today and through 2025+.

Points 94 RRP $29.00 Distributor: Astrolabe Wines Phone: (03) 577 6794 www.astrolabewines.co.nz

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THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021 23

ASTROLABE MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Classic bouquet and palate with flavours of tropical fruits and apple, lemon pith and peach tea, fresh herbs of sage and basil. The core of fruit and minerality are accentuated by sweet acidity and its palate refreshing qualities. Well made, lengthy, harmonious and ready. Best drinking from today and through 2025+.

Points 94 RRP $27.00 Distributor: Astrolabe Wines Phone: (03) 577 6794 www.astrolabewines.co.nz

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AKARUA PISA CENTRAL OTAGO SAUVIGNON BLANC 2019 Attractive - floral and fruity bouquet with calm yet decisive aromas of sweet grapefruit and apple. Quiet yet obvious tropical fruits, sage and a fine leesy complexity. Lovely mouthfeel with textures from the fine lees and acidity, contrasted with fresh fruit flavours that reflect the nose - lemon pith and green pear, apple and tropical fruit layers. Balanced and well made, delicious today and through 2025.

Points 94 RRP $29.00 Distributor: Hancocks Wine Spirits and Beer Merchants Phone: (03) 445 0897 www.akarua.com

10

AUNTSFIELD SINGLE VINEYARD MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Complex bouquet with layers of fruit, spice and fine lees autolysis. Fruit aromas of tropical fruits and flowers, Meyer lemon and apple, fresh basil and green herbs then a delicate fresh gooseberry moment. Equally complex on the palate with a youthful tension from acidity and mouthfeel from acidity and lees accentuated by the herbaceousness and core of fruit. Delicious and serious wine best enjoy from early 2021 through 2026.

Points 94 RRP $25.00 Distributor: Negociants Phone: (03) 578 0622 www.auntsfield.co.nz

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12 CHURTON WINES MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2019 Intense yet elegant varietal - pure aromas of sweet citrus and white peach, fresh herbs of basil and sage, mineral and spices of lees and site. On the palate - equally intense and even more elegant with a core of citrus, tree and stone fruit flavours, moments of tropical fruit and plenty of fresh herbs. A fine texture is also at the core of this wine with plenty of acidity and mouthfeel adding length and finish. Well-made and ready to enjoy from today and through 2025.

Points 94 RRP $27.00 Distributor: Churton Wines Phone: (021) 083 04764 www.churtonwines.co.nz 24 THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021

CLOUDY BAY MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Classic, pungent, fruity, herbaceous and urgent bouquet of pink grapefruit, tropical fruits, apple and fresh herbs. Equally pungent on the palate with high acidity, hay and flavours of passionfruit and pineapple, lemon, basil, white peach, white flowers and a core of stony minerality. Delicious, fresh, crunchy texture and lengthy finish. Best drinking from 2021 through 2026+.

Points 94 RRP $39.99 Distributor: Moet Hennessy Phone: (03) 520 9140 www.cloudybay.co.nz

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DELTA ESTATE HATTERS HILL MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Complex and enticing, fragrant, varietal and packed with aromas of sweet herbs and tropical fruits, citrus and white peach, apple and grapefruit. On the palate - salivating acidity leads to flavours of citrus and tropical fruits, white stone fruits and apple.

No mistaking an energy in the acidity and mineral stony layer. Balanced, fresh and well made. A luscious long finish with best drinking from today and through 2025.

Points 94 RRP $27.00 Distributor: Delta Wine Company Phone: (03) 578 8594 www.deltawines.co.nz

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DOMAIN ROAD BANNOCKBURN CENTRAL OTAGO SAUVIGNON BLANC 2018 Complex and integrated, youthful and fine.

Aromas and flavours of mineral first with a flinty hard stone edginess, then flavours of peach and lemon, herbs and fine lees. The core of minerality and fruit extend the finish and with a satin texture, the wine has great mouthfeel and finesse. Best drinking from today and through 2024+.

Points 94 RRP $23.00 Distributor: Co Pilot Phone: (03) 445 4244 www.domainroad.co.nz

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16 GIESEN THE AUGUST MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2018 Fantastic bouquet - complex and compelling with aromas of a gentle barrel-ferment spices and toastiness, flavours of fresh and baked apple, flowers and stone fruits. A layer of stony mineral, citrus peel and lees spice add depth and complexity. Satin mouthfeel with contrasting acidity and gentle sweet barrel flavours. Well-made and ready to enjoy from today and through 2026+.

Points 94 RRP $39.99 Distributor: Giesen Group Ltd Phone: (03) 344 6270 www.giesen.co.nz

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tasting notes

17 GIESEN ORGANIC MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Aromas of roasted citrus and sweet herbs, mineral and peach tea, flowers and fragrant spices. Satin textures with contrasting acidity and a core of fruit flavours that reflect the nose. Lengthy finish with a mix of spices and fruits, preserved lemon and whispers of tropical fruit. Excellent drinking today and through 2025.

Points 94 RRP $19.99 Distributor: Giesen Group Ltd Phone: (03) 344 6270 www.giesen.co.nz

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HUNTER’S MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Vibrant, distinctive and pungent bouquet with aromas of sweet grapefruit, apple, pith and sweet hay. There’s a mix of fresh herbs with tropical fruits and a stony mineral-water scent. Delicious on the palate with flavours of passion-fruit and pineapple, pacific rose apple flesh and lemon. Fresh herbs and mineral flavours are persistent as is the acidity and saline effect. As always extremely well made with a long finish. What’s not to like?

Points 94 RRP $19.90 Distributor: EuroVintage Phone: (03) 314 6869 www.hunters.co.nz

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JULES TAYLOR WINES MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Fabulous bouquet of SB with intensity and power, a core of fruit, spice, layers of fresh herbs and definitive stony minerality.

Lots of vibrato and energy on the palate with spicy acidity, a core of tropical, citrus and white-fleshed fruit flavours, moments of satin texture adding to the complexity and mouthfeel. Lengthy finish, a delicious wine ready to enjoy from today and through 2023+.

Points 94 RRP $24.95 Distributor: Hancocks Wine Spirits and Beer Merchants Phone: (0800) 699 463 www.hancocks.co.nz

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LAWSON’S DRY HILLS MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Classic, pungent, fruity and loaded with aromas of minerality, river stones, herbs and flowers. Flavours on the palate include mango and apple, passionfruit and lemon pith. Refreshing with plenty of acidity carrying the flavour of herb and mineral. A lovely wine, ready to drink from today and through 2023+.

Points 94 RRP $20.00 Distributor: EuroVintage Phone: (0800) 338 766 www.lawsonsdryhills.co.nz

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LOVEBLOCK ORGANIC MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Distinctive, almost exotic, pure, ripe and varietal with aromas of lemons and grapefruit, white spice and wild flowers, apple and sweet herbs. Silky texture and a core of fruit give way to the youthful refreshing line of acidity, soft herb and flavours of forest flowers, mineral and spices.

A delicious wine ready to enjoy from today and through 2025+.

Points 94 RRP $21.99 Distributor: Hancocks Wine Spirits and Beer Merchants Phone: (09) 365 1471 www.loveblockwine.com

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PADDY BORTHWICK WAIRARAPA SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Very classic bouquet Sauvignon Blanc and the Borthwick style - aromas of passionfruit and apple, warm peach tea and lemon, nettles and grass. On the palate - crisp, refreshing, fruity and dry. Flavours mirror the nose accentuated with fresh acidity and fruit spices. Balanced, well made and ready to enjoy from today and through 2025.

Points 94 RRP $22.50 Distributor: Borthwick Vineyard Phone: (027) 467 3478 www.borthwick.co.nz

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PEGASUS BAY WAIPARA VALLEY SAUVIGNON SEMILLON 2018 Distinctive bouquet of fresh peach and lemon, a waxy sweet hay and floral layer then honeysuckle and a whisper of marmalade. Harmonious and complete on the palate with a silky soft cream texture, contrasting acidity and dynamic citrus and stone fruit flavours. Delicious, balanced, well made and ready. Best drinking from today and through 2026+.

Points 94 RRP $34.00 Distributor: EuroVintage Phone: (03) 314 6869 www.pegasusbay.com

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SACRED HILL RESERVE MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2019 Varietal, ripe, fruity and nicely complex bouquet with aromas of blossoms and tropical fruits, river stones and grapefruit, peach and soft barrel-spice complexity.

Equally complex, balanced and fine on the palate with gentle oak spice and lees autolysis flavours layered between the citrus and tropical fruit core. Balanced and well made, ready from today and through 2024.

Points 94 RRP $21.99 Distributor: Quench Collective Phone: (06) 879 8760 www.sacredhill.com

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THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021 25

25 VILLA MARIA SINGLE VINEYARD SOUTHERN CLAYS MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2019 Complex and fine bouquet with aromas of citrus and tree fruits, plenty of minerality and a layer of leesy spice and quiet autolysis.

Plenty of texture and finesse on the palate with flavours of sweet citrus and pith, some tropical fruit, pear and spice. Perfectly balanced with a vibrant tense mouthfeel. Excellent drinking from today and through 2025.

Points 94 RRP $29.99 Distributor: Villa Maria Estate Ltd Phone: (09) 255 0660 www.villamaria.co.nz

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WHITEHAVEN SINGLE VINEYARD AWATERE SAUVIGNON BLANC Ripe, fruity, varietal, pungent and elegant with a power-drive in the initial bouquet that transitions to a softer more satin textured expression. Aromas of sage and spice, citrus and peach, tropical fruit moments and wet mineral - stone qualities. On the palate - crisp, dry and packed with flavour. It also shows it’s elegant side as well with a satin, salty mouthfeel, fruit flavours that reflect the nose, an abundance of acidity and fine fruit spice flavours. Balanced and well made with a lengthy finish. Ready today and through 2024+.

Points 94 RRP $28.00 Distributor: Whitehaven Wine Company Phone: (03) 572 7588 www.whitehaven.co.nz

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VILLA MARIA RESERVE CLIFFORD BAY MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Ripe, fresh and varietal bouquet that also captures the stony, salty and light savoury core messages of the Awatere. Aromas and flavours of apples and sweet Meyer lemon, a savoury herb seam, white peach and grapefruit pith.

Crisp texture of acidity enhances the minerality while the saline note places you firmly close to the sea. Young, lively, balanced and well made.

Best from today and through 2025.

Points 94 RRP $24.99 Distributor: Villa Maria Estate Ltd Phone: (09) 255 0660 www.villamaria.co.nz

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VILLA MARIA RESERVE WAIRAU VALLEY SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Powerful bouquet with aromas of ripe citrus and white orchard fruits, sweet herbs and passionfruit. This theme embraces the palate too with flavours that reflect the nose, salivating acidity, a salty grapefruit layer and a satin leesy textured energy. Youthful too, needing just a little cellar time, but also delicious today with fresh shellfish and crisp summer dishes.

Points 94 RRP $24.99 Distributor: Villa Maria Estate Ltd Phone: (09) 255 0660 www.villamaria.co.nz

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FORREST MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Powerful, pungent, tropical and loaded with aromas of sweet herbs and salty sea air.

Crisp, tense, fruity and just dry on the palate.

Salivating acidity, flavours of ripe tropical and citrus fruits and a lean salty mineral finish.

Points 93 RRP $22.00 Distributor: Quench Collective Phone: (03) 572 9084 www.forrest.co.nz

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GIESEN UNCHARTED MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 A calm satin textured bouquet leading to ripe citrus, soft sage and basil herb qualities, mineral, lees and youthful varietal appeal. On the palate - tense, vibrant, fresh and youthful with a core of fresh white peach, lemon, sage and mineral flavours. The firm youthful texture with acidity and fruit spice, lees and moderate alcohol dovetail nicely into a lengthy, balanced and true Sauvignon Blanc finish. Great drinking today and through 2024+.

Points 93 RRP $19.99 Distributor: Giesen Group Ltd Phone: (03) 344 6270 www.giesen.co.nz

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GIESEN SINGLE VINEYARD MATTHEWS LANE MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2014 An excellent vintage and bottle age delivers a bouquet of toasty complexity and integration whilst holding onto the core varietal character and flavours of citrus peel and herbs, preserved peaches and sweet hay. Acidity remains vibrant carrying the flavours of orchard fruits, hay, dried herbs and minerality.

Well-made and ready to enjoy from today and through 2024.

Points 93 RRP $42.99 Distributor: Giesen Group Ltd Phone: (03) 344 6270 www.giesen.co.nz

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ARA SINGLE ESTATE MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 A vibrant, classic and inviting bouquet with aromas of passionfruit and sweet grapefruit, crunchy red apple and lemon pith then fresh grassy herbaceousness. Classic flavours of citrus, tropical and stone fruits laced with fresh herbs and carried through the palate with sweet, fresh acidity leads to finish that is classic and delicious. Drinking well now and through 2023.

Points 93 RRP $21.99 Distributor: Giesen Group Ltd Phone: (03) 344 6270 www.giesen.co.nz

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tasting notes

33 MARISCO VINEYARDS THE KING’S FAVOUR MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2019 Fresh, bright, fruity, herbaceous and varietal with aromas and flavours of sweet peach and grapefruit pith, crunchy red apple and fresh green herbs. There’s a fine wet riverstone, greywacke granite flavour layered throughout. Crisp, refreshing and fruity with citrus, white-fleshed stone fruits and moments of tropical fruit punch and herb.

What’s not to like? Best drinking from today and through 2024+.

Points 93 RRP $21.99 Distributor: Lion Phone: (09) 522 9684 www.marisco.co.nz

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MARISCO VINEYARDS LEEFIELD STATION MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2019 Juicy, fleshy, very fruity and inviting bouquet of apple and lemon, fresh herbs, mango and blossom. Equally fruity on the palate with more herbaceous flavours for contrast.

Refreshing crunchy texture with acidity and mineral flavours driving the core. Balanced and well made, ready to drink from today and through 2024.

Points 93 RRP $19.99 Distributor: Lion Phone: (09) 522 9684 www.marisco.co.nz

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LAWSON’S DRY HILLS BLIND RIVER AWATERE VALLEY SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Attractive, vibrant and enticing bouquet with aromas of apple, grapefruit, lemon and fresh herb. A tropical fruit and mineral stony layer adds complexity and intrigue. Silky and refreshing on the palate with flavours of citrus, apple and tropical fruits, some fresh herb and mineral. Balanced and well made, a complete wine ready to enjoy from today and through 2023+.

Points 93 RRP $20.00 Distributor: EuroVintage Phone: (0800) 338 766 www.lawsonsdryhills.co.nz

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LEFTFIELD MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Nicely layered and complex bouquet with aromas of pineapple and lemon, sage and wet stones, white pear and pear. Crisp and salivating on the palate with plenty of acidity then flavours of citrus and tropical fruits that reflect the nose. Balance, satin texture on the finish and well made. Drinking best today and through 2022.

Points 93 RRP $17.99 Distributor: Villa Maria Estate Ltd Phone: (06) 879 7602 www.leftfieldwines.com

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LUNA ESTATE MARTINBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Distinctive bouquet of fresh apple and silty mineral soils, peach and gooseberry, sage and a fine lees autolysis. Fresh and fruity on the palate with salivating acidity and flavours that mirror the nose. Balanced, refreshing and well made. Best drinking from today and through 2024+.

Points 93 RRP $24.00 Distributor: EuroVintage Phone: (06) 306 9360 www.lunaestate.co.nz

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MIDDLE EARTH NELSON SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Immediately intense, fruity and pungent with aromas of tropical fruits and Meyer lemon, fresh herbs and wet stones minerality.

On the palate - equally intense, fruity and herbaceous with flavours of pineapple and apple, mango and pear, basil and stones.

Balanced and well made, fruit centric, fresh, crunchy and ready. Ready to enjoy from today and through 2024.

Points 93 RRP $19.95 Distributor: Hancocks Wine Spirits and Beer Merchants Phone: (03) 542 4145 www.middleearthwine.com

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ODYSSEY MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2019 Immediately plush, fruity, vibrant and intensely varietal. Aromas and flavours of fresh white-fleshed fruits, citrus and tropical notes. Nice tension on the palate from acidity, then a soft and creamy texture contrasts. The core of this wine is the variety, lift and flavour intensity. Balanced and well made, long finish and delicious!

Points 93 RRP $21.95 Distributor: Odyssey Wines Phone: (09) 837 5410 www.odysseywines.co.nz

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AOTEA BY THE SEIFRIED FAMILY NELSON SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Attractive fruit-centric bouquet with aromas of peach tea and sweet lemon, apple then sweet herbs and hay. Fresh, salivating and fleshy textures on the palate with lemon and tropical fruits, plenty of acidity and a balanced, lengthy finish. Great drinking from today and through 2025.

Points 93 RRP $29.00 Distributor: Seifried Estate Phone: (03) 544 5599 www.seifried.co.nz

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41 STONELEIGH ORGANIC MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Intense, crisp, fruity and vibrant bouquet - varietal with aromas of fresh herbs and tropical fruits, sweet basil and white peach, pineapple, apple and lemon. On the palate - salivating and fruit-centric with flavours that reflect the nose, the core of fruit carries the wine, spicy and herbaceous, tropical and lengthy. A well-made wine ready to enjoy from today and through 2023+.

Points 93 RRP $19.99 Distributor: Pernod Ricard New Zealand Phone: (09) 336 8300 www.stoneleigh.com

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VILLA MARIA CELLAR SELECTION MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 No mistaking the core intensity of tropical fruits and citrus with mango, passionfruit and hot pineapple, then red apple and citrus. Just dry on the palate with flavours that mirror the nose. Crunchy and fresh, a touch of fruit spice and balanced lengthy finish. Drinking perfectly today and through 2022.

Points 93 RRP $18.49 Distributor: Villa Maria Estate Ltd Phone: (09) 255 0660 www.villamaria.co.nz

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LAWSON’S DRY HILLS INVINITI MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Fleshy, ripe, fruity and classic bouquet with aromas and flavours of passionfruit and lime, pineapple and grapefruit, fresh herbs and green apple. Very crisp on the palate with salivating and slightly saline acidity accentuating the herb and citrus attributes leading to a fresh and vibrant finish. Wellmade and ready to enjoy from today and through 2023+.

Points 92 RRP $17.00 Distributor: Lawson’s Dry Hills Phone: (0800) 338 766 www.lawsonsdryhills.co.nz

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MATAHIWI ESTATE WAIRARAPA SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Immediate, intense, varietal, tropical and pure with aromas of tropical fruits and white-fleshed tree fruits, a whisper of lychee and a fresh stony mineral quality. On the palate - crisp, refreshing and dry with flavours of passion fruit and red apple, citrus and grapefruit pith. Bright and fresh with a core of fruit contrasted by a top line of acidity, crunchy, balanced and well made. Ready to enjoy from today and through 2022+.

Points 92 RRP $22.99 Distributor: Winery Direct Phone: (06) 370 1000 www.matahiwi.co.nz

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SACRED HILL MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Classic bouquet of ripe tropical fruits laced with citrus peel and fresh herbs, wet stones and crunchy apple. Fleshy textures showcase flavours of white-fleshed fruits and citrus pith, passionfruit and fresh lychee. Plenty of acidity and herbaceousness leads to a lengthy and satisfying finish. Drink now and through 2023.

Points 92 RRP $17.99 Distributor: Quench Collective Phone: (06) 879 8760 www.sacredhill.com

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ESK VALLEY MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Classic bouquet with aromas of fresh tropical fruits and fresh herbs, apple and citrus with a wet stone-like mineral complexity. Flavours on the palate mirror the nose, plenty of acidity gives a crunchy refreshing texture leading to a satisfying salivating finish. Best drinking from today and through 2023.

Points 92 RRP $19.99 Distributor: Villa Maria Estate Ltd Phone: (09) 255 0660 www.eskvalley.co.nz

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ASTROLABE DURVILLEA MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Bright, fresh, fruity, varietal and classic with aromas and flavours of lemon and fresh apple, green pear and tropical fruits. The fresh herbs layer adding complexity and fine mineral moments adding depth. Crisp and dry on the finish, with pure citrus and tree fruits flavours wrapped in garden herbs.

Drink now and through 2023.

Points 92 RRP $18.00 Distributor: Astrolabe Wines Phone: (03) 577 6794 www.astrolabewines.co.nz

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FIDDLERS GREEN VINEYARD WAIPARA VALLEY SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Classic bouquet of fresh herbs and grassy pastures contrasted by aromas of peach, grapefruit and apple. On the palate - a core of fruit drives the palate with flavours of peaches and citrus, followed by fresh herbs and mineral notes. Balanced and well made with a spicy jalapeno finish. Best drinking from today and through 2023.

Points 92 RRP $32.00 Distributor: Fiddler’s Green Vineyard & Bistro Phone: (03) 314 7679 www.fiddlersgreen.nz

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tasting notes WHITEHAVEN MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Ripe and fleshy tropical fruited bouquet, with aromas of apple and grapefruit, mango and fresh lychee. On the palate - crisp, tense, fresh, fruity and dry. A classically style wine with a core of citrus and tropical fruits contrasted with high acidity and fruit spice.

Balanced, fresh, well made and ready. best drinking from today and through 2024+.

Points 92 RRP $22.00 Distributor: Whitehaven Wine Company Phone: (03) 572 7588 www.whitehaven.co.nz

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OLD COACH ROAD NELSON SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Varietal, fruity, herbaceous and fresh fruited bouquet. Flavours of pineapple and grapefruit, apple and sweet white peach.

Crisp and refreshing on the palate carrying flavours of citrus and tropical fruits, angelica and sage herbs flavours. Balanced and well made, ready to drink from today and through summer 2022.

Points 91 RRP $14.00 Distributor: Seifried Estate Phone: (03) 544 5599 www.seifried.co.nz

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GIESEN ESTATE MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Ripe, fruity and varietal with a classic bouquet of passionfruit and mango, apple, lemon and fresh herbs. Crunchy refreshing textures on the palate with vibrant flavours of citrus and white peach, lemon and tropical fruits laced with fresh herbs and a touch of grass. Drinking well now and through 2022.

Points 91 RRP $14.99 Distributor: Giesen Group Ltd Phone: (03) 344 6270 www.giesen.co.nz

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ARA RESOLUTE ORGANIC MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2019 Floral, fruity and quite seductive with aromas of peach blossom and apple then grapefruit and softer herbs and hay layers. Equally enticing on the palate with flavours of golden kiwi and lemon, stony minerality, pineapple and apple. Medium+ acidity with a core of fruit and herb leads to a decent finish and mouthfeel. Well-made and ready to enjoy from today and though 2024.

Points 91 RRP $28.99 Distributor: Giesen Group Ltd Phone: (03) 344 6270 www.giesen.co.nz

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THE DOCTORS’ MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Pungent, fruity and herbaceous, stony mineral, apple, lemon, tropical fruits and a touch of spice. Crisp, refreshing, salivating, tropical and dry. Flavours of passionfruit and mango, lemon and apple. Balanced, well made and ready. A lower alcohol wine of just 9.5% .

Points 91 RRP $20.00 Distributor: Quench Collective Phone: (03) 572 9084 www.thedoctors.nz

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VILLA MARIA PRIVATE BIN MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Vibrant and fruity core of tropical fruits and fresh herbs, white flowers and pink grapefruit. Delicious on the palate with flavours that reflect the nose, a backbone of acidity then passionfruit and mango, citrus and a touch of spice. Well-made and ready.

Drink now and through 2021.

Points 91 RRP $14.99 Distributor: Villa Maria Estate Ltd Phone: (09) 255 0660 www.villamaria.co.nz

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THE SISTERS MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 Ripe, fruity, fresh and tropical with aromas and flavours of passionfruit and pineapple, apple and lemon. Some fresh herb flavours and minerality along with a just dry finish offer a wine that is ready to drink from today and through 2022. Plenty of refreshing acidity adds texture and mouthfeel to a core of fruit palate. Well-made and ready.

Points 90 RRP $17.00 Distributor: Lawson’s Dry Hills Phone: (0800) 338 766 www.lawsonsdryhills.co.nz

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THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021 29

w o l w o h CAN

?

O G YOU

Beer writer Denise Garland explores the ever-increasing trend of low- and no-alcohol beer in New Zealand and shares her picks for the best styles to choose for your venue.

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here’s often a perception with beer – particularly with craft beer – that more alcohol means more flavour. But just because a beer is sessionable or lower in alcohol, doesn’t mean it will taste any less. In fact, there are a whole host of beers being brewed in New Zealand that are packed full of flavour, despite coming in below the regular 4% ABV. Some even come in much lower than that.

New Zealanders are increasingly exploring low-alcohol beer options at our bars, restaurants and supermarkets. Not only do our country’s stringent drink-driving laws encourage it, but factors such as our 30 THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021

health and our lifestyles are progressively influencing our alcohol intake.

The Brewers Association of New Zealand, whose members are New Zealand’s two largest breweries – DB and Lion – found in its Brewing in New Zealand Report 2020 that low- and no-alcohol beers (those with ABVs of between 0-1.15%) have grown markedly in recent years.

The Association’s Executive Director, Dylan Firth, said that statistic is one of the most dramatic findings of the report.

“Beers with low alcohol content (less than 1.15%) have seen huge growth, with an increase of 256% in volume since 2015,” he says. “The Brewers Association supports the

Denise Garland is a journalist with a love of all things beer. She has been writing about beer for a decade and was the winner of the 2019 Brewers Guild Beer Media Award. She has previously worked in hospitality in Christchurch, Wellington and Edinburgh. Denise home brews – though not as often as she’d like – and has been a judge in several home brew and commercial beer competitions.

low- and no-alcohol beer moderate and responsible consumption of beer and the increase in the low and no category really reflects this in our society too.”

Indeed, the latest information from Stats NZ shows that trend is being seen across all breweries. In 2019 (the latest information Stats NZ had on its website at the time of writing), 518,000 litres of beer 1.15% and under was available for consumption in New Zealand, up almost 47% on the year before (353,000 litres in 2018). In fact, the statistics show low- and no-alcohol beer is more popular now than it has been in the past 15 years.

Beers under 1.15% in alcohol still make up the smallest part of the beer market in Aotearoa. But thanks to the rapid rise in demand in this sector, we’re now seeing an increase in the number of options available to consumers.

While many of the examples have And it does a pretty good job been imported until now, Mac’s at faking the real thing. The clear, has recently released a tasty local yellow-gold beer pours like its option onto the market. golden muse, and while the aroma Mac’s Stunt Double is a 0.5% is sweeter and more syrupy ABV Golden Ale, which claims than the hoppier nose of a true to look and taste like a golden golden ale, the flavour is pretty ale - only without the alcohol. bang-on with a light, citrus hop Mac’s Brand Manager, Ali flavour, a touch of bready malt Futcher, said the brewery and a slightly bitter finish. The jumped at the chance to create only clue that this isn’t the full a craft beer in the low and no 4-5% you’d usually expect with alcohol category. this style, is that it’s a touch “We know Kiwis are loving watery on the flavour and less lower alcohol brews, which bloating on the belly – which is why we’ve committed to isn’t necessarily a negative. providing this new, innovative While the low- and nobrew that doesn’t compromise alcohol beer range has seen on taste or quality,” she says. huge growth over recent Mac’s Stunt Double

“BEERS WITH LOW ALCOHOL CONTENT (LESS THAN 1.15%) HAVE SEEN HUGE GROWTH, WITH AN INCREASE OF 256% IN VOLUME SINCE 2015.”

DYLAN FIRTH, BREWERS ASSOCIATION OF NZ.

years, beers that sit between the 1.15 and 2.5% ABV range are seeing a bit of a decline in popularity, despite them being more commonly stocked in bars and retail outlets.

The 1.15-2.5% sector experienced mammoth demand in 2015 and 2016, when more than nine million litres of beer was available for consumption in New Zealand. The popularity has steadily declined since then, with Stats NZ figures showing 6.3 million litres of beer in that range was available to consumers in 2019.

But one brewery that has taken that as a challenge is Wellington-based Choice Bros. This year, under Head Brewer Brayden Rawlinson (who, as of January 2021, has taken on the Head Brewer role at Fork and Brewer), the brewery took the chance to do a bit of a brand refresh and created a core six beers that ranged between 2.2 to 6% ABV. By law, all licensed venues need to have at least one low ABV choice available - which the legislation deems as an option under 2.5% alcohol. Choice Bros runs a bar/restaurant on its brewery site, and Rawlinson said he and his small team took this as an opportunity to create a truly delicious option for those wanting a properly sessionable beer. They came up with the 2.2% Rebel Rebel Pale Ale – a light, easy-drinking beer with notes of sweet apricots – making it available in both cans and on tap.

“We wanted to prove to people that you can get something that’s crushable, smashable, and flavoursome from a low ABV offering,” says Rawlinson.

He says while Rebel Rebel has been a

THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021 31

low- and no-alcohol beer beer that has notes of lemon and bread – a bit like a good sourdough. This drying beer style also compliments salty or fatty foods, like bacon, fries or fish and chips, with the sour notes cutting right through the heaviness of the food.

People often liken the Berliner Weisse to a very dry cider, and it has the same refreshing, thirst-quenching quality of one – though is probably more sour than most ciders can pull off. The style can be polarising, but is also highly sought-after with it being a hit with both beer-lovers and those who don’t generally enjoy traditional hop-forward beer styles like Pilsners and IPAs. Some breweries also add fruit to this style to give it a hit of complimentary sweetness, mimicking the syrup often added to glasses of Berliner Weisse in the German capital where the style originates.

bit of a slow mover on tap, the cans have been really popular. “People [are] stocking the cans for licensing purposes, but it’s a decent beer and they can get it for a really attractive price point.”

And while licensed bars and restaurants are obligated to have at least one lowalcohol option, the rise in popularity of the very low and no-alcohol market among New Zealanders proves it’s worth investing some more shelf and tap space for consumers not only for on-licenses, but supermarkets and liquor stores too.

Research shows that our younger, and often most socially-active, adults are drinking less than previous generations. A decade-long study into tertiary students’ drinking habits by Otago University researchers, published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health in 2018, found the proportion of students who drank to intoxication was substantially smaller than the number who did in 2004. It also found fewer were drinking in pubs - though the proportion of students who drank alcohol did not change.

These younger drinkers are still wanting to have a few beers with friends, they just don’t want to drink to excess, and want to drink in private settings as much as out at bars and restaurants. That attitude makes low-alcohol, no-alcohol and session beers a more attractive option than in the past.

And people want variety. For on- and off-premise venues looking for a range of 32 THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021

low- or no-alcohol beers, these styles a good starting point.

PALE ALE A lot of the 2-2.5% beers on the market – like Choice Bros Rebel Rebel – are session Pale Ales, and range from the floral to the fruity to the bitter. Pale Ales often make good drinking on their own - they tend to have a good balance between a slight malty sweetness and a drying – but not over-the-top – bitterness.

Pale Ales are also one of the more popular styles among drinkers generally, meaning that if people are looking for a sixpack from an off-license to take to a party or to stockup their fridge, the session Pale Ale is one of the more sought-after options; it is delicious, but not challenging. They’re also perfectly suited to pairing with breads and cheese, making the session pale ale an obvious choice to have on offer at bars and restaurants.

BERLINER WEISSE A style of beer you often find in the sessionable range of about 2.5-3% is the Berliner Weisse. It is a tart, dry, spritzy and moreish

GOSE A sour style making waves in the New Zealand beer scene is the Gose – a generally lower-alcohol beer with added salt. While it sounds a bit strange, the salt actually adds a complementary flavour to the lemony-tart brew, and it makes it an exceptional pairing for food – particularly seafood, such as oysters or the catch of the day. The tartness of the Gose – which can range from low to high – is also moderated by its saltiness, making it (in my opinion, anyway) also a delightful style to drink on its own, particularly on a hot, sunny day.

With the demand for low- and noalcohol beers at an all-time high in Aotearoa, I expect there’s more innovating and further flavour surprises to come in the form of sessionable beers in the very near future.

While sessionable Pale Ales and low-ABV sour styles will continue to be popular (and I expect a growth in options among these styles), I think we’ll see more experimentation in the sector too. Regularstrength hazy IPAs are so trendy right now I can’t imagine it will be too long before someone cracks an under-2.5% offering, while yeast-forward beers – such as Witbiers and Saisons – would also make excellent lower alcohol options for this ever-growing segment of drinkers. ■ Choice Bros Rebel Rebel

on-premise

SPOTLIGHT ON A LOCAL:

Brewport

As the hospitality industry continues to bounce back from the upheaval of last year, The Shout NZ is dedicated to supporting Kiwi locals. ocated in the heart of Ponsonby in Auckland, Brewport is a collaboration between Greg Dragicevich, an Airline Captain who always enjoyed experimenting with home brewing; Kim Martinez, a flight attendant searching for a way to keep her feet on the ground after 23 years; and Andy Larsen, a frequent flyer, brewmaster and entrepreneur. The trio banded together to bring brews, beverages and eats to the people of Auckland in a bar inspired by vintage air travel. Kim Martinez shares an insight into the goings on at Brewport.

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HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE BREWPORT AND ITS ATMOSPHERE? Brewport is a chilled, friendly, laid-back environment in the heart of Ponsonby, but secretly tucked away from the hustle and bustle down a laneway.

HOW DOES BREWPORT STAND OUT FROM OTHERS IN YOUR AREA? We are Ponsonby’s only microbrewery and beer garden, offering not only our own brews, but also other local breweries’ beers on tap. And our staff really make Brewport stand out from the rest, being mainly ex-Air New Zealand flight attendants, you’ll get first class service with a smile!

WAS IT A DIFFICULT TO DECISION TO LAUNCH A NEW VENUE GIVEN THE AFFECT COVID-19 HAS HAD ON THE NEW ZEALAND HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY? Not at all. Coming from aviation, our whole industry was terribly affected. So, facing redundancy, we focused our attention on Brewport, and it was a positive distraction.

WHAT DO YOU THINK IT TAKES TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN THE NEW ZEALAND HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY? We are bringing uniqueness and a totally different offering from what is around at the moment, that, following good advice, and having the best team on the job, is what we think it takes to be successful in this industry.

WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR WHEN HIRING STAFF? We pride ourselves on having amazing staff, who enjoy good banter, genuinely care about our customers, have a positive attitude, and great work ethic, so these are qualities we look for at an interview.

WHAT WILL BE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES FOR BREWPORT IN THE COMING MONTHS? Obviously COVID-19 still plays a big part in businesses, especially in our industry, so we will be relying on a lockdown-free New Zealand. Also, being tucked away down an alleyway, we really need to spread the word so that people can find this hidden gem! ■

“WE ARE BRINGING UNIQUENESS AND A TOTALLY DIFFERENT OFFERING FROM WHAT IS AROUND AT THE MOMENT.”

THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021 33

last round

LIQUOR, LAW AND LOCAL ALCOHOL

policies

Are you up to date with local alcohol policies? Lauren Eaton and Ashleigh Neill from Russell McVeagh share why it’s important for license holders to stay involved in the LAP process.

ocal Alcohol Policies (LAPs) have the potential to impact on-licence and off-licence holders around the country, imposing stricter licence conditions than those set out under the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 (Act).

Here, we look at the legal framework for LAPs, recent objections to the provisional Auckland LAP and what this means for licence holders around the country.

Under the Act, LAPs are optional.

Although councils are not required to have an LAP, 44 councils have adopted LAPs. LAPs may include policies on a range of matters, including where licensed premises can be located, maximum trading hours and one-way door restrictions that would allow patrons to leave premises and not re-enter after a certain time.

Part of the driver for LAPs is to enable communities to have a say in licensing decisions. As a result, councils are required produce a provisional LAP for consultation. A provisional LAP should include reasons for each policy which is clearly backed by evidence as to how

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34 THE SHOUT NZ – FEBRUARY 2021

the policy responds to local issues in addressing alcohol related harm.

While LAPs have been implemented across the country, not all LAPs have been without challenge. One particular example is Auckland Council’s provisional LAP which has been subject to a range of legal challenges since the provisional LAP was notified in 2015. Objections were made in relation to various aspects of the LAP, including maximum trading hours for both on and off-licences and a temporary freeze on granting new off-licences in certain areas.

The objections have made their way to the High Court and the judgments were released earlier this year. In terms of trading hours in particular, the High Court found that any departure from the statutory closing hours needs to be grounded in reasons that show why the application of the statutory closing hours do not achieve the object and purpose of the Act in the local area. This serves as a reminder of the need to ensure that LAPs are founded on reliable evidence that links the policy to the harm that it aims to prevent.

But the battle is not over. Auckland Council appealed the decision to the Court of Appeal and the matter is expected to be heard next year. The outcome of that decision will have implications not only for Auckland’s LAP but also for how councils around New Zealand develop LAPs going forward.

As the Act requires councils to review their LAPs every six years, some of the earlier adopted LAPs have already been reviewed and others are coming up for review in the near future. We expect that the Court of Appeal’s decision will have a bearing on that review process.

It is important for licence holders to be on the lookout for any changes to LAPs in their relevant areas. While LAPs can be an effective tool in assisting councils to reduce alcohol related harm in their communities, unsubstantiated LAPs have the potential to impose unreasonable restrictions on on-licence and off-licence holders. Getting involved (and getting involved early) in the LAP process is the most effective way that licence holders can ensure that any policies are reasonable in light of the Act and a proportionate response to the harm that they seek to prevent. ■

Ashleigh Neill, Solicitor at Russell McVeagh

Lauren Eaton, Senior Associate at Russell McVeagh

“WHILE LAPS HAVE BEEN IMPLEMENTED ACROSS THE COUNTRY, NOT ALL LAPS HAVE BEEN WITHOUT CHALLENGE.”

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