2024 Neudorf Rosie's Block Moutere Albarino, Nelson

Pale lemon. Delicate layers of apple blossom, orange peel, pithy lemon and sea shell lift off the glass, accompanied by a hint of white pepper. The palate is elegant, linear and energetic, holding a sliver of off-dry sweetness throughout, which emphasises concentrated orange fruit against the sweeping backdrop of chalky phenolics, zesty, saline acidity and finishing almost dry with a satisfying chew. Ripe, long and intense while being light on its feet, this finely-structured, beautifully balanced juicy albariño will evolve from its fresh, floral salty flavours to something more honeyed and weighty in the mid-term if that is your preference. Great food wine 23 Jan 2025 Drink2025–2030

93 points Stephen Wong MW therealreview.com

Neudorf Rosie’s Block Moutere Albariño from Nelson is a bright and finely tuned white that brings Spanish flair to New Zealand’s cool, coastal landscape. Planted in the mineral-rich clay gravels of the Moutere Hills, Rosie’s Block offers a site with excellent drainage, warm days and cool sea-breeze evenings—perfect conditions for Albariño to thrive with both freshness and depth.

Winemaker Todd Stevens and his team at Neudorf lean into a minimal intervention philosophy. The fruit is handpicked, whole bunch pressed, and fermented wild in a mix of stainless steel and old oak barrels, with some lees stirring to build texture. This hands-off approach allows the grape’s natural vibrancy and salty charm to shine.

In the glass, this Albariño bursts with aromas of white grapefruit, green apple skin, lime blossom and sea spray. The palate is zesty and chalky, full of citrus and white stone fruit, with a gentle phenolic edge and mouthwatering saline finish. It’s a wine of clarity and coastal energy, reminiscent of its Galician roots but unmistakably New Zealand in brightness and drive.

Perfect with grilled prawns and lemon, fish tacos, or Vietnamese rice paper rolls. Also delicious alongside goat’s cheese, charred zucchini or mussels steamed in white wine. Best enjoyed young for its vibrancy, though it will hold for up to 3 to 5 years.