Paddy Borthwick Pinot Gris 2025

Paddy Borthwick Pinot Gris is ripe, perfumed and nicely textured; a Wairarapa Pinot Gris that brings apricot, nectarine and green pear together with a gentle touch of spice and oak. Fermentation is split between stainless steel and older French oak, giving the wine both fresh varietal character and a richer, rounded mid-palate, while nine months on lees adds further texture. It finishes dry and crisp rather than sweet, making it an easy match for roast pork, chicken, creamy mushroom dishes or gently spiced Asian food. A polished, flavour-packed Pinot Gris from Borthwick's family-owned Gladstone vineyard.

What the winery says:

The 2025 fruit comes from Borthwick Estate in Gladstone, Wairarapa, where Pinot Gris was first planted in 2006 and 2007. Following a long, dry summer, the fruit was harvested with acidity an important consideration in the picking decision. After processing, the juice was divided between stainless steel and older French oak barrels. The tank portion underwent a slow, cool fermentation to preserve varietal aromas, while the warmer barrel fermentation was used to build palate weight. Both parcels spent nine months on yeast lees before blending, fining and filtration. The finished wine has aromas of apricot, nectarine and green pear, a rich mid-palate with mild oak influence, and a dry, crisp, gently spiced finish.

What the experts say:

Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, 94 Points (2025)
“It's splendidly ripe and inviting on the nose with poached pear, mango, Gala apple, and warm spice aromas.”

Cameron Douglas MS, 92 Points (2025)
“Varietal and very fruity bouquet with a concentration of pear and apple flesh scents then some white spice and white florals.”