Millton Vineyards

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Millton Vineyards, Gisbourne, New Zealand

Vintage Roots are proud to represent the wines from Millton, we have fantastic vintages in stock from his entry level £12.99 wines which have recently (March 2013) been reviewed by top wine critic Tom Cannavan. (WINE-PAGES.COM)

It was in the 1980s that Millton vineyard was established by James Millton. He and his wife Annie returned to Gisborne having gained experience in Europe, including periods spent at Champagne Bollinger, Maison Sichel in Bordeaux and Weingut Kurstner in Rheinhessen. By 1983 they had researched and replanted major parts of the family grape growing business, before establishing the winemaking facility in 1984.

Today Millton is revered as one of the country’s finest producers, particularly for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and as one of the most terroir-driven. From the outset the vineyards have been farmed organically, and using biodynamic techniques, and today are certified as both organic and biodynamic. Wines are fermented with natural yeasts and rarely is acidity adjusted.

Millton Vineyards, Te Arai Chenin Blanc 2010, New Zealand
Just 12.5% ABV here, Hint of wax and wool, lots of dry, crunchy apple fruit, lemon at the core. On the palate fabulous juiciness and freshness. Dry and pithy, with tight fruit and gorgeous definition. What a lovely, crisp Chenin this is, feeling as if it will have ageing potential, with that great, lemony thrust on the finish. 89/100. £12.99

Millton Vineyards, Opou Chardonnay 2010, New Zealand
Fermented in oak barrels with natural yeasts, but only around 12% of the barrels are new. It has a lovely Brazil nut aroma and fine creamy character and plenty of vibrant, punchy orange and lime. Delicious wine, such gorgeous vibrancy punching through the oak, pristine, singing and vivacious and model stuff. 92/100. £12.99

Millton Vineyards, Riverpoint Gewurztraminer 2010, New Zealand
Terrific, classic Gewurz nose, with lychee and Nivea cream and lots of herbal notes coming through in a gentle leafiness. Full and weighty, though basically bone dry, the luscious or sweet character suggested by those aromatics not quite the reality on the palate with its lovely racy fruit and great core of acidity. Delicious, tangy, moreish stuff. 90/100. £12.99