Walnut Block is possibly the tiniest producer in New Zealand! Basically it’s two brothers, Nigel and Clyde Sowman who decided to make the best wine they possibly could. Their parents, Terry and Lynley, own Tindall’s Wines which produces some pretty decent wines, now also available in the UK. Nigel and Clyde earmarked the best block of vines in the entire vineyard which happens to have a walnut tree in the middle, hence the name, then they set about making the ‘best wine possible’ according to Nigel who got his inspiration from working in the wine department at Harrods.  In their quest for perfection they even earmark specific bunches of grapes to go into their two wines, and they manage the entire vineyard organically for best results.

It’s a rare thing these days – a wine that is made for passion, not for profit! It’s extremely limited stuff, and very good too.

What’s it like?

Well let’s start by saying they only make 110 cases per year. The grapes are hand selected and picked which is extremely labour intensive but ensures only the very best grapes go into this wine. It has intense flavour and noticeable body from time spent in oak, with really good length. It’s a cracking wine.

How much? Where can I buy it?

It’s severely limited but can be found at a couple of good independents such as Food and Fine Wine in Sheffield, but the best price for Walnut Block Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 is from www.goodwineonline.co.uk at £13.46