Quartz Reef Pinot Gris Awarded 95 Points by Decanter

New Zealand may be best known for Sauvignon Blanc, but some of its most interesting white wines are found beyond the obvious.

In a new Decanter feature devoted to New Zealand’s finest aromatic whites, Master of Wine Emma Jenkins highlights the quality and individuality emerging from varieties such as Pinot Gris, Riesling, Chenin Blanc and Albariño.

Quartz Reef Pinot Gris 2024 was awarded 95 points, placing it among the highest-rated wines in the tasting.

For us, Pinot Gris has never been an incidental wine. Grown at our biodynamic Bendigo vineyard, it is made dry and given time in the cellar to develop texture, shape and savoury detail.

The 2024 vintage spent ten months on lees and completed full malolactic fermentation. Rather than diminishing the wine’s freshness, this approach gives it a finer texture and greater depth while retaining the acidity and clarity we look for in our wines.

Emma Jenkins MW noted orchard fruit, lemon rind, oatmeal, fine herbs and a subtle peppery character. She found the palate crisp and dry, with succulent acidity, concentrated fruit and a fine, mealy texture, together with an appealing umami quality.

Her closing words were refreshingly direct: “Very moreish” and a “great food wine.”

That captures the wine rather well.

Quartz Reef Pinot Gris 2024 has enough freshness to drink easily, but its real place is at the table. Its dry, textural style makes it particularly good with seafood, roast chicken or pork, mushrooms, creamy sauces and gently spiced dishes.

Decanter’s wider tasting makes a persuasive case for New Zealand’s aromatic white wines. They may account for only a small part of the country’s vineyards, but the best examples offer character, value and a clear sense of where they come from.

We are pleased to see our Pinot Gris and Bendigo recognised among them.

Quartz Reef Pinot Gris 2024
95 points – Decanter
Tasted by Emma Jenkins MW

Link to Decanter article https://www.decanter.com/wine/new-zealand/new-zealands-aromatic-whites-tailor-made-for-summer/