Tupari
Tupari Vineyards are located in the Awatere Valley sub-region of Marlborough . This valley is typically cooler and drier than the Wairau valley and its’ Sauvignon Blancs are becoming increasingly sought after. This vineyard is a joint partnership between two couples who have known each other for over twenty years. David and Heather Turnbull look after the vineyard side of things while winemaker Glenn Thomas and partner Sharon Inwood round out the team. Tupari vineyard was planted in 2002 on the north facing terraces under the cliffs of the Turnbull property. Tupari is local Maori word referring to the “the Cliffs” located at the eastern edge of the property. Glenn Thomas has been making wine in Marlborough since 1986. He has had roles as chief winemaker for Corbans (one of New Zealands’ largest wineries), as well as jointly establishing the first winery in the Awatere Valley “Vavasour wines”. I am not sure I have ever seen a more impressive list of awards and accolades than for this winemaker and his wine consulting firm. These include New Zealand winemaker of the year and more international trophies for shows and publications (such as Decanter and Wine Spectator) than I could possibly name. I was particularly impressed with Tupari because it has very focused goals. “To produce the best Sauvignon Blanc possible from the Awatere”. Only the best fruit is chosen from various parts of the vineyard, and no expense is spared. Any fruit that does not make the cut is sold to other wineries or labels. The 2008 Sauvignon Blanc was the single best wine from the vintage I tried while I was in the country.
« Back
HemispheresWine
Facebook Page
YouTube Channel