Waipapa Bay Rose 2018
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Waipapa Bay wines are products of the evolution in viticulture and winemaking taking place in New Zealand, particularly in the premium grape growing region of Marlborough. We strive to produce wines with elegance and a sense of place from grapes farmed with the utmost attention and care. The close proximity to the Pacific Ocean provides ideal climatic conditions for the vines to thrive and gives a signature character that carries through each of the four varietal wines.
The name Waipapa Bay comes from the laid-back surf spot on the Pacific Ocean, a place of stunning, natural beauty. It is located halfway between the Canterbury home of Brent and Shirley Rawstron – native New Zealanders who oversee the vineyards and winemaking – and their vineyards in Rapaura. The couple always stop at this coastal town to see the seals or whales, which are regularly spotted off the coast; it evokes what the Rawstons hope their wines do: joy and appreciation for nature
Whether it’s playful and fun or savory and serious, most rosé today is not your grandmother’s White Zinfandel, though that category remains strong. Pink wine has recently become quite trendy, and this time around it’s commonly quite dry. Since the pigment in red wines comes from keeping fermenting juice in contact with the grape skins for an extended period, it follows that a pink wine can be made using just a brief period of skin contact—usually just a couple of days. The resulting color depends on grape variety and winemaking style, ranging from pale salmon to deep magenta.
On the central eastern coast of the South Island, Canterbury includes a collection of small and varied subregions. The region is cool and dry with low rainfall and light, infertile soils. Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir are well-suited here, with Pinot Gris coming in third place.