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Wine Blogging Wednesday 4: New World Riesling

Some consider Spy Valley Wines to be one of New Zealand's best-kept secrets, which is perhaps appropriate given the winery's name, derived from Wairau Valley's nickname—a government satellite communications monitoring facility dominates the valley floor.

The valley sits in New Zealand's Marlborough region, whose Sauvignon Blanc wines are well-known. But Ant Mackenzie, wine maker at Spy Valley, argues that the cooler temperature of the valley favors Riesling as well as Sauvignon Blanc, and he bottled a small amount. Wine Blogging Wednesday 4 provided the perfect opportunity to try this wine, which I bought from a friend when she moved to England.

Tasting Note: 2003 Spy Valley Riesling, Marlborough, New Zealand, $14 at various online sources
Straw-colored from edge to center. Apples and peaches dominate the aromas with notes of stony minerality. Melissa noted some of the petrol (gasoline) smell typical of good rieslings. Juicy lime (the fruit, not the mineral) dominates the palate along with a sharp acidity and an almost effervescent sensation. A weighty wine with a medium-long finish.

General Thoughts: This wine was a pleasant surprise for someone so snobbish about German rieslings. Though this Riesling still falls short of those lofty heights, it has its own distinct character and appeal. Melissa liked this wine a lot, and I'd have no problem buying more of it.

Food: I served this wine alongside a sautéed pork chop with raw apples and steamed new potatoes tossed in a tarragon-horseradish vinaigrette. I garnished with diced carrots that I sautéed in the pan after the pork chop came out. The wine worked reasonably well with this dish, though I think a German Riesling would have worked better. I'd love to try this wine with a mild Thai seafood dish or salad, as I think the fruitiness and lime would complement that nicely.

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