Image Via https://www.yealands.co.nz/

When you think of New Zealand, what wines come to mind? Many would say, Sauvignon Blanc, which is a crisp and refreshing white wine that’s perfect for summer! When I think of NZ of course that wine always comes to mind, however, there is so much more to this beautiful country when it comes to wine! I first discovered Yealand’s Wines years ago, at dinner and fell in love with the wines. I have tasted them every so often since, and was so incredibly lucky to meet the wonderful female winemaker for the winery, right before Covid-19 happened, and now we’re all trapped at home.

Image via https://www.yealands.co.nz/

Chief Winemaker, Natalie is quite the powerhouse! She is funny, engaging, and very passionate about wine. She lights up the room when shes talking about her career. She has been named by The Drinks Business, as one of the World’s Most Influential Women in Wine in 2018, and even mentors women in wine, with a program run by New Zealand Winegrowers. Natalie joined Yealands’s winemaking team in 2015 and was designated to the position of Chief Winemaker in January 2019. In addition to her winemaking expertise, she brings originality and outside of the box thinking, with endless energy to her team at Yealands.

The winery is located near the coast, in Marlborough. They are very focused on sustainability and working with the land, to produce great wines. One fun thing they do, is all of the vines grow up listening to classical music! Studies have shown that the vibrations and the soundwaves can help stimulate growth. I think this is very special when you find wineries doing great things to help their vines. It’s true, music heals the soul, and I believe plants too, can feel that.

We tasted our way through a lineup of wines, paired with delicious bites at ZUMA, New York. Some of my favorite wines from the tasting included:

2019 Yealands Sauvignon Blanc: It’s zesty, vibrant, and full of life. The nose is full of citrus and herbs, while the palate is lively and balanced. Overall this wine is a pleasure and paired beautifully with Yellow Fun Tuna, Edamame, and Avocado Salad.

2019 Yealands Sauvignon Blanc Rosé: Full of fruit and beautiful aromas of fresh strawberry, and wildflowers. It’s delicate with a beautiful mineral-driven finish that is ideal for springtime sipping.

2018 Yealands Pinot Noir: This Pinot is fun and fruity with soft tannins. NZ Pinot Noir is always fun because it’s so different, and tends to have some of that grassy New Zealand character to it. There’s a nice spice in the finish, making this wine ideal with the delicious Salmon and Steak at ZUMA.

For those of you who enjoy New Zealand wines, if you haven’t tasted Yealands yet, I highly recommend the wines! They are always enjoyable and are perfect for this springtime weather we have been having. Whether you’re cooped up at home, or have a little room to enjoy the outdoors, Yealand wines pair with everyday life!

Always remember, eat what you like and drink what you love. Please pair responsibly.