Until the early seventies, Marlborough was a sheep grazing region with little else to offer other than growing fruit and vegetables. Even with low land values the risk of planting grapes was fraught with danger as the uncertainty of failure.
Enter Ivan and Amanda Yukich Croatian immigrants who were the first to plant grapes in 1973 under the Montana label (now Brancott Estate). With their first vintage a mixed success most of the vines were replaced with sauvignon blanc and pinot noir in the hope that with the colder climate, sunny days and crisp nights they would be rewarded with vibrant wines. In 1979 the first sauvignon blanc was produced which changed the face of the region forever.
Marlborough today is unmistakably our most famous wine country with more than 130 wineries and 40 cellar doors producing some of the finest award-winning wines in the world. Of all the wineries Brancott Estate is the region’s original modern-day vineyard and with its stunning architecture cellar door and restaurant wine lovers are provided with wine tasting and dining experiences that will charm you.
Reflecting true individually, Brancott’s latest series of reserves are well-priced and will not disappoint.
’20 Brancott Estate Reserve Pinot Noir
Its lightness in colour and hints of intense fresh rich fruit is teamed up with aromas of delicate flavours and soft but firm tannins. This is a wine that holds its own. Serve with beef, lamb, pork and pizza. $20
‘20 Brancott Estate Reserve Rose
Light on the palate, this dry and refreshing fruit driven varietal makes this the perfect food and wine match. Best served with grilled chicken, pork, fennel sausages, lamb, Asian dishes. Even better with feta and goat cheese. $20
’20 Brancott Estate Reserve Sauvignon Blanc
This food-friendly clean and fresh wine is balanced with ripe citrus herbaceous flavours and complemented with a crisp acidity that sets the scene. Serve with seafood, chicken, turkey, salmon, pork and summer salads. $20
’20 Brancott Estate Reserve Pinot Gris
A medium bodied off-dry ripe fruity wine with great depth oozing with concentrated fruit giving a lingering finish on the palate. Great when served with fish, seafood, chicken, veal, pork and spicy Asian dishes. $20
’20 Brancott Estate Reserve Chardonnay
The fresh and succulent citrus fruit is underlined with well-managed oak and a rich texture making this an affordable easy drinking wine. Serve with fish, seared seafood, chicken risotto, pork and veal. $20
