Tūpari ‘Pink Pukeko’ Rosé 2025
Grape Varietals: Pinot Gris & Pinot Noir
Growing Region: Awatere Valley, Marlborough - New Zealand
Founder / Winemaker: Glenn Thomas
Tūpari Vineyards sit atop some magnificent cliffs overlooking the Awatere River that runs through the estate in the heart of this southern valley with the same name in Marlborough - NZ. Winemaker Glenn Thomas and his partner Sharon were leasing the Turnball’s farm cottage and after a few bottles of wine crafted by Glenn it was easy to appreciate these elevated river terraces were ideal for growing premium quality grapes, so in 2002 Tūpari vineyard was planted.
The fruit is sourced from their own vines planted in the Awatere valley, which is a special parcel of land sitting slightly elevated and consists of free draining gravels resting on fine sand, silt and clay. The fruit was picked at the ideal time and once it arrived at the winery the fruit underwent gentle vinification under the diligent eye of Glenn. Using a specific yeast to celebrate summer nuances in the evaluated flavours achieved along with retaining a gentle few grams of natural residual sugar. The wine was then allowed to rest for a casual period retaining its upbeat nature and a deft mineral edge to focus this expression.
★ You are greeted with a watermelon pink colour and shining hue. On the inviting nose you have wild strawberries, watermelon, raspberry, grapefruit, along with floral notes and hint of honeysuckle. The light-weight palate has an appealing fresh nature, celebrating watermelon, cooling morning strawberry, raspberry nuances, along with cranberry and a good splash of honeysuckle. The wine has a silky-smooth texture and soft citrus kiss due to the generous portion of Pinot Gris resulting in a causal and ever-so charming dismount off the tongue.
This 2025 TŪPARI ‘Pink Pukeko’ Rosé has 13% Alc./vol. Made in a near dry style with 4.1g/L R.S. Chill gently and serve in a light, aromatic wine glass at 7° - 8°C. • *NZ$25
CELLARING POTENTIAL: *(Review 8/12/25)
Drinking perfectly well this summer season; and will hold for another 12 - 18 months.
FOOD PAIRING SUGGESTIONS:
Perfect wine pairing with fresh scallops, prawns, sushi & sashimi, mussels, salmon ceviche, tuna salad, fresh crayfish, seasoned crab spring rolls and also with several scoops of watermelon & citrus sorbet - enjoy.
