Wine columnist and connoisseur DENNIS KNILL gives his views on two of M by Montana’s new wine releases.
In 1934, Ivan and Amanda Yukich, two young Yugoslavian immigrants, planted grapes on a small plot of land in Titirangi. Their first vintage was all sold in 1944 and over the next 15 years they acquired more land to plant more grapes. In 1961 their two sons, Mate and Frank, joined the business and Montana Wines was born.
Montana became so successful that additional land in Gisborne and Marlborough was acquired and as the winery grew so did the opportunity to export. What followed was quite remarkable: Montana became the first winery to be listed on the New Zealand Stock Exchange. The growth continued and in 2000, Corbans Wines was acquired, making Montana a powerhouse winemaker. In 2005 Pernod Ricard made a successful takeover bid and the rest, as they say, is history. To commemorate 50 years of the first wine plantations, M by Montana has produced a new pinnacle range of four wines.
Here are two exceptional value-for-money wines that will not disappoint.
’22 M by Montana chardonnay
Rich and ripe with a core of white fruit that has plenty of freshness, balance, and flavour that adds complexity, structure, and a distinctive bouquet. Pair with seafood, fish dishes, roast chicken, pork, and pasta.
RRP $20
’22 M for Montana pinot gris
A vibrant and full-bodied wine displaying delicate characters of intensively fresh citrus that’s crisp and dry on the palate with a delicate acidity. The perfect match when served with seafood, vegetarian, and Asian-inspired dishes.
RRP $20
