Valhalla reaches the top of the World Cuisine May issue 2012

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Sunday Star Times April 2012

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Press Release ‘Tulia’ Man O’ War first Methode Traditionnelle 2009

Man O' War launches New Blanc de Blancs from Waiheke Island Man O’ War Vineyards, located on the Eastern end of Waiheke Island, has expanded its Flagship range with the release of their inaugural Methode Traditionnelle Blanc de Blancs, named Tulia. In keeping with all of Man O’ War Flagship wines, the name Tulia has a meaning. “Named in our mother’s native tongue after her first granddaughter Tulia, which in Finnish is a small and gentle breeze, is a very meaningful name for our tiny and treasured production of Blanc de Blancs.”

Selected from a small parcel of 2009 vintage Chardonnay, Tulia exhibits classical Blanc de Blancs traits of floral and honeyed notes with a lightness and freshness that make it a stunning food partner for dishes that are similarly clean, pure and fresh.

Duncan McTavish, Man O’ War winemaker, commented, “An elegant and thought provoking wine, Tulia is our first ever Blanc de Blancs Methode Traditionnelle. This limited release is yet another reason to visit us at our new Tasting Room on the shores of Man O’ War Bay where our entire range of Flagship wines are available for tasting”

Only 540 cases were made and Man O’ War is pleased to present this rare offering of Tulia at the Tasting Room at Man O’ War Bay, their website and also at selected Fine Wine stores and Restaurants in New Zealand.

Man O' War supports the Westpac Rescue Helicopter fundraiser

http://www.stuff.co.nz/auckland/local-news/waiheke-marketplace/6274348/Helipad-task-achieved

The vital role of the Westpac rescue helicopter has been demonstrated by punters' generosity at a fundraiser to create a purpose-built helipad on the island.

Ticketholders to the function at Man O' War Vineyard's tasting room cruised there courtesy of Fullers before tasting gastronomic delights by The Food Embassy which were washed down by an endless supply and selection of wines.

Guests were under no illusion as to why they were there. MC John Hawkesby set them up for the live auction using techniques ranging from imploring through to embarrassing and begging.

He extracted bids for items including an evening at the Hawkesbys' home, a day out sailing with Brad Butterworth, and a celebratory barbecue with two Waiheke knights – Sir Peter Leitch and Sir Graham Henry.

An hour later and $76,000 had been raised.

The estimated cost of $120,000 for a new, permanent concrete landing pad was achieved when $30,000 of tickets sales and $25,000 from the silent auctions were added.

Event organiser and Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust trustee Michelle Boag says the target was reached thanks to the "fantastic" support from businesses.

"It was a very successful day and we are all keen for it to become an annual event." Mr Hawkesby says the event made him proud to be a resident.

"There was incredible generosity shown by the community who are constantly hit up for all manner of worthy causes. It was another stunning indictment of what a generous, open hearted bunch we are." "The occasion was a wonderful expression of people's generosity not only those bidding and the sponsors, but also those behind the scenes," he says.

The location and timing of the helipad project is with Auckland Council, but Local Board chairwoman Faye Storer says the trust has shown "laudable enterprise".

"That will no doubt make it become a reality much sooner," Ms Storer says.

Man O’ War Tasting Room opens

The loop road at the eastern end of Waiheke now a has a destination point. Our Man O’ War Tasting Room has opened. Perfectly positioned on the beachfront it feels like it has ‘been there forever’

The cedar clad pitched roof structure with spacious veranda’s on three sides was crafted in the traditional style reminiscent of the original houses scattered at the Eastern End. The Man O’ War bar has been crafted from sustainably sourced Kauri akin to the magnificent ancient stands that occupy the surrounding hills.

The walls are decorated with old photographs and artworks of seagoing vessels to illustrate where the names for Man O’ War wines originate.

The tasting Room offers complimentary casual tastings of Man O’ War wines.

Relax and enjoy on your own, or bring the family, and take simple pleasure in a delicious glass of Man O’ War wine and a tempting platter of exquisite local produce.

Man O’ War Tasting Room – open 7 days a week from 11 am to 6pm in Summer and 11am – 4pm in Winter
Phone 09 372 9678 or e-mail tastingroom@manowarvineyards.co.nz for more details

Northeast Wines & Spirits Ltd and Man O’ War wines establish distribution agreement for Hong Kong

Northeast Wines & Spirits Ltd( formerly known as The Northeast Trading co. Ltd) was established in Hong Kong in early 1993;

Lillian Haynes Managing Director entered the wine business as she saw a niche market for New World wines in Hong Kong, especially as New Zealand wines were fast becoming fashionable to drink in Hong Kong.

Northeast offers the biggest selection of New World wines in Hong Kong their objectives are to provide:

‘Our business remains family owned and managed and we care how are customers perceive us. Our service is second to none and we try to offer the best combinations of price and speed of delivery in Hong Kong’Lillian Haynes Managing Director

Northeast Wines & Spirits Ltd. Was voted Best Wholesaler and Best Specialist Importer by Wine Business International – Who’s Who in Hong Kong 2007

Email; info@northeast.com.hk
Website; www.northeast.com.hk

Wine Guru and Man O’ War Wines establish distribution agreement for Singapore

The Wine Guru was launched in April 2008 in response to the rapidly growing wine market in Singapore.

The Wine Guru specialises in wines from Australia and New Zealand ranging from quality wines at affordable prices up to more premium styles for fine wine lists.

The Wine Guru differs from other wine distributors by listening to the market and sourcing wines that fit our customers’ needs.

We pride ourselves in building relationships with both our suppliers and customers and we are not just about the “hard sell”. Jo Dorai – The Sales Guru

Trophy and Gold – Best New Zealand Syrah – International Wine Challenge 2011

Man O’ War Vineyards, located on the eastern end of Waiheke Island, strikes Gold again and pulls in the coveted Trophy for Best New Zealand Syrah in the prestigious International Wine Challenge 2011.

Only 4 Golds were awarded in this category, crowning Dreadnought as the Best Waiheke Syrah. The judges’ notes, “Opaque, vinous and meaty on the nose, ripe fruit with violet, floral intensity on the palate. Delightful purity of fruit with juicy flavours, the tannins are fine and quite fresh on the finish” clearly differentiated Dreadnought from the competition, to achieve the sought after Trophy.

Chris Ashton, IWC Event Director says: “A Trophy award is a true sign of exceptional excellence. With Gold medals already under their belts, these wines really represent the best of a country or a particular wine region, or of a specific grape variety.” The formidable judging panel is made up of the IWC Co-Chairmen - Tim Atkin MW, Sam Harrop MW, Charles Metcalfe and Derek Smedley MW and global wine expert and TV personality Oz Clarke. Man O’ War winemaker, Duncan McTavish, commented, “We are really proud and humbled that our Dreadnought Syrah has received such a prestigious award, we’re thrilled that our wines are gaining recognition from some of the world’s finest wine commentators.”

The International Wine Challenge, now in its 28th year, is probably the world’s largest wine tasting. Man O’ War’s Vineyard Manager, Matt Allen said, “The vision when we established Man O’ War Vineyards was founded on the firm belief that world class wines could be produced here. Over time, we have worked together with the unique terroir of each of our pockets of hillside vineyards to develop and craft the qualities of each special site. The significant number of world renowned accolades we have achieved demonstrates the excellent wines Man O’ War is consistently producing, resulting with our first Trophy, and I am confident there will be many to come!”

Tim Atkin MW and Co-Chair of the Awards commented, “New Zealand Syrah has carved a reputation for …….. and builds on New Zealand’s reputation that we’re not just about Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir! Dreadnought has gone that one step further and brought Waiheke Island as a recognised appellation for Syrah….”

Other significant awards this year include: Man O’ War Valhalla 2009 GOLD at the International Wine Challenge 2011 with Man O’ War Ironclad 2009 scooping in SILVER. Man O’ War Gravestone SILVER at the Decanter Wine Awards 2011 and Man O’ War Dreadnought 2009 won GOLD at the Imbibe Sommelier Awards 2011.

Double GOLD for Man O’ War Dreadnought 2008 from Decanter Wine Awards & International Wine Challenge 2010

Dreadnought Syrah, one of Man O’ War’s flagship wines, has received GOLD in two of the world’s most prestigious wine competitions, ‘Decanter Wine Awards’ and the ‘International Wine Challenge’. To add further kudos to this achievement, only 5 New Zealand wineries received Gold in both awards and Man O’ War Dreadnought was the only Waiheke wine to receive Gold in both. Increasingly competitive, both competitions hit record numbers this year. The International Wine Challenge received submissions from 46 wine producing countries whilst Decanter hit 10,983 entries, sealing its position as the world’s biggest international wine competition, with only 2.8% of wines winning a coveted Gold or Regional Trophy!

Man O’ War’s vineyard manager Matt Allen says, “The whole team is on a real high following the results and its great reward for everyone involved, knowing firsthand the hard yards required for such recognition.

2008 was a truly amazing vintage to be a part of and the awards are further endorsement that wines produced from little old Waiheke can stand proud on a world stage.” Man O’ War is found at the eastern end of Waiheke Island in Auckland’s pristine Hauraki Gulf. It is named for the fact that Waiheke supplied kauri trees to Captain James Cook for masts on his Man O’ War battle ships.

The vineyards are a stunning spread of coastal hillsides — 150 acres of vines spread over 90 individual parcels selected specifically for their terroir and microclimate. This attention to detail has delivered wines of individuality, character and quality.

Dreadnought Syrah takes its name from the first in a line of 20th century battleships bestowed with the motto ‘Fear God and Dread Nought’ and embodying a supreme combination of speed and power. Dreadnought Syrah is grown on the steepest and most breathtaking hillside vineyards.

O’Brien’s and Man O’ War Wines commence new partnership in Ireland

Man O’ War Wines has established a partnership with the prestigious O’Brien’s, Ireland’s largest family owned drinks retailer. Man O’ War will be the first Waiheke Island wine, joining O’Brien’s select New Zealand portfolio.

O’Brien’s, renowned for its staff’s knowledge and training of quality wine, will be hosting Man O’ War’s Winemaker, Duncan McTavish, and Sales & Marketing Manager, Sara Fogarty, at some of their Dublin stores during late September. “With both of us being family owned we share many attributes, with individuality and quality being the focus. We are delighted to join O’Brien’s excellent portfolio of outstanding wines and are looking forward to sharing our unique wines with Ireland”, says Sara.

“With New Zealand wines at the front of our customers minds I am thrilled that we are able to introduce diversity to our portfolio with these award winning wines from this little known region of New Zealand.” says Lynne Coyle, Head Wine Buyer and Development for O’Brien’s.

Man O’ War derives its name from the spectacular bay that Captain James Cook anchored off in 1769. Upon sighting the ancient stands of magnificent Kauri trees covering the surrounding coastline, Cook noted that they would make ideal spars for the warships of the Royal Navy.

Today, the 100% estate grown and family owned Man O’ War Vineyards is known for its award winning wines (Double Gold for Man O’ War Dreadnought 2008 from Decanter & International Wine Challenge 2010) which are individually named to reflect the history and exceptional sense of the place.  Located on a stunning coastal site at the eastern end of Waiheke Island in Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf, the vineyards are made up of 90 individual parcels selected specifically for their unique terroir.

The Man O’ War wines, available in O’Brien’s from October, will include Ironclad 2008, Dreadnought 2008, Valhalla 2009, Man O’ War Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Man O’ War Merlot Cabernet Franc 2008 and Man O’ War Chardonnay 2008. All these wines are featured on the Man O’ War website.

Double GOLD for Man O’ War Dreadnought 2008 from Decanter Wine Awards & International Wine Challenge 2010

Dreadnought Syrah, one of Man O’ War’s flagship wines, has received GOLD in two of the world’s most prestigious wine competitions, ‘Decanter Wine Awards’ and the ‘International Wine Challenge’. To add further kudos to this achievement, only 5 New Zealand wineries received Gold in both awards and Man O’ War Dreadnought was the only Waiheke wine to receive Gold in both. Increasingly competitive, both competitions hit record numbers this year. The International Wine Challenge received submissions from 46 wine producing countries whilst Decanter hit 10,983 entries, sealing its position as the world’s biggest international wine competition, with only 2.8% of wines winning a coveted Gold or Regional Trophy! Man O’ War’s vineyard manager Matt Allen says, “The whole team is on a real high following the results and its great reward for everyone involved, knowing firsthand the hard yards required for such recognition. 2008 was a truly amazing vintage to be a part of and the awards are further endorsement that wines produced from little old Waiheke can stand proud on a world stage.” Man O’ War is found at the eastern end of Waiheke Island in Auckland’s pristine Hauraki Gulf. It is named for the fact that Waiheke supplied kauri trees to Captain James Cook for masts on his Man O’ War battle ships. The vineyards are a stunning spread of coastal hillsides — 150 acres of vines spread over 90 individual parcels selected specifically for their terroir and microclimate. This attention to detail has delivered wines of individuality, character and quality. Dreadnought Syrah takes its name from the first in a line of 20th century battleships bestowed with the motto ‘Fear God and Dread Nought’ and embodying a supreme combination of speed and power. Dreadnought Syrah is grown on the steepest and most breathtaking hillside vineyards.

Man O’ War launches in Asia at the Ultimate Robert Parker in Asia event

Man O’ War has been invited to exhibit at the exclusive Ultimate Parker in Asia – an invitation-only event for the world’s best wineries in Singapore, from May 1 to 3. It’s particularly prestigious because of the star guest, the world’s most influential wine critic, Robert Parker Jr – who is also bringing key critics from The Wine Advocate, which awarded Man O’ War wines very high scores late last year.

Just 100 wineries from around the world have been hand picked to attend the Ultimate Parker in Asia, which involves two days of wine tasting, master classes and a charity dinner hosted by Parker.

“It goes to show that Man O’ War is making a name for itself as a producer of serious fine wine,” says Man O’ War sales and marketing manager Sara Fogarty.
As well as industry tastings, the event is expected to attract between 1500 and 2000 wine enthusiasts from around Asia – an invaluable opportunity to reach a discerning and growing wine market.

Man O’ War will be showcasing its Ironclad Bordeaux Blend 2008, Dreadnought Syrah 2008 and Man O’ War Chardonnay 2008, all of which received very good scores in The Wine Advocate.

This comes just weeks after Man O’ War’s launch in Singapore, Hong Kong and Indonesia with Rubicon Reserve Wines.

“Asia is a really important market for us,” says Sara Fogarty. “Wine drinkers there are passionate about good wine. We want to show them just how good New Zealand and Waiheke wine can be.”

“Man O’ War is showing that New Zealand is not just a one trick Pinot Noir pony,” says David Coleman of Rubicon Reserve Wines. “The production of super premium Bordeaux blends and world class Syrah makes Man O’ War the perfect bookend for Rubicon Reserve Wines extensive New Zealand portfolio.”

Man O’ War is found at the eastern end of Waiheke Island in Auckland’s pristine Hauraki Gulf. The vineyards are a stunning spread of coastal hillsides — 150 acres of vines spread over 90 individual parcels selected specifically for their terroir and microclimate. It’s this attention to detail that creates such individual wines.

Man O’ War opens cellar door

You should pay a visit to Man O' War Bay this summer, there will find nestled amongst the native trees Man O’ War’s new Cellar Door, a rustic cabin paying homage to keeping Kiwiana alive on Waiheke Island. “It’s fairly understated, we just want people to come and enjoy the beauty of Man O’ War Bay and experience our fantastic wines and produce”, says Man O’ War’s Bronwyn Skuse. 

All Man O’ War wines will be available for tasting, as well as products from the surrounding farm, including olive oil and honey. Because of the sheltered beauty of Man O’ War Bay, it is traditionally a popular boaties destination. Now they will be able to drop in and stock up! For those on foot or wheels, Man O’ War Bay is a perfect picnic destination offering a public BBQ for use also! You can stop by, stock up or settle in and enjoy this gorgeous Bay!

Between December 26 and January 4, the cellar door will be open every day between 12 and 6pm, and then between Friday and Sunday until Easter.

Man O’War is located on a stunning coastal site at the eastern end of Waiheke Island in Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf, the vineyards are made up of 90 individual parcels selected specifically for their unique terroir. Now, Man O’ War drinkers can enjoy this very special part of the world.

Ironclad named best new world red by Decanter’s Steven Spurrier

Man O’ War’s flagship wine, Ironclad 2008, has been named best new-world red by Steven Spurrier in the latest issue of Decanter magazine (January 2010).

It comes just weeks after three Man O’ War wines from the same vintage took 90-plus ratings in Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate.

“The 2008 vintage is being hailed as one of Waiheke’s best” says Duncan McTavish, Man O’ War’s winemaker. “It’s really gratifying that our flagship blend, Ironclad has been recognized by one of the world’s great wine authorities”.

Spurrier noted the Ironclad was an “arresting Bordeaux blend… Smoky from oak ageing with magnificent berry fruits and leathery undertones.”

It’s all the result of Man O’ War’s fastidious approach to winegrowing. Located on a stunning coastal site at the eastern end of Waiheke Island in Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf, the vineyards are made up of 90 individual parcels selected specifically for their unique terroir.

It’s this approach that allows each and every vine to produce the best possible fruit – and the results show through in the recognition Man O’ War is achieving for its wine.

Man O’ War wines take Parker honours for second year running

Three Man O’ War wines achieved 90-plus ratings in Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate, September 2009 Issue #184 — the second year the vineyard has received such high ratings.

This comes after a year of accolades, including praise in major New Zealand and international media, and just goes to show what consistently excellent wines Man O’ War is producing.

“It’s a great vote of confidence to get such high praise from those we admire, it confirms our belief that we are crafting wines from a very special place,” says Duncan McTavish, Man O’ War Winemaker.

Topping the Parker scores was the 2008 Dreadnought, with 91 points. Reviewer for The Wine Advocate Neal Martin remarked on the wine’s dried herb characters of bay leaf and thyme, with firm tannins and “a dash of white pepper on the poised finish that displays fine tannins and great focus… Coy — but give this time to unfurl.”

The 2008 Valhalla also scored 91 points. “The palate is very harmonious with tropical overtones, good acidity, fresh citrus fruit with touches of brioche and a little vanilla pod. Green lemon, hints of white peach developing, great length. This is a very fine, quite assertive Chardonnay,” Martin noted.

The team was delighted that two of its flagship wines received such praise. But they were especially excited that from the Man O’ War entry level range the Man O’ War Chardonnay 2008 was awarded 90 points.

“It just goes to show what great value Man O’ War is,” says Man O’ War sales and marketing manager Sara Fogarty. “All of our wines are consistently excellent. But to be able to drink a 90-point wine every day? That’s exciting, especially in the current economic environment.”

Neal noted that the wine has notes of green lemon, kiwi fruit and apple-blossom, with “nice definition” and a palate showing lemon, lime, apple and a touch of peach skin. It is, he wrote, “content being delicious.”

Wine writer John Hawkesby agrees. In the November 14, 2009 edition of Canvas (The New Zealand Herald’s weekend magazine) the Waiheke-based personality praised the same Chardonnay, calling it “Perfect summer drinking” with an “elegant, lively finish”.

That follows mentions for Man O’ War’s wines in several international magazines. Bob Campbell MW, writing in Gourmet Traveller Wine, wrote: “The wines show impressive concentration and ripeness under the watchful eye of winemaker Duncan McTavish.”

Meanwhile, Decanter editor Guy Woodward reviewed the Pinot Gris. “The 2008 has a welcome fleshy texture, lively, zesty fruit and a touch of prickly breadiness.”

Man O’ War is found at the eastern end of Waiheke Island in Auckland’s pristine Hauraki Gulf. It is named for the fact that Waiheke supplied kauri trees to Captain Cook for masts in the Man O’ War battle ships.

The vineyards are a stunning spread of coastal hillsides — 150 acres of vines spread over 90 individual parcels selected specifically for their terroir and microclimate. This attention to detail has delivered wines of individuality, character and quality.

Man O’ War to launch in Britain

Man O’ War will launch in the United Kingdom in September and it’s been helped greatly by teaming up with boutique wine distributor Stokes Fine Wines.

It’s an exciting move. Established in 1987, Stokes only represents winemakers who are passionate about making handcrafted wines, searching out high-quality wines with bags of character; wines that speak of the place they’re from and the people who make it.

This obsession with quality and individuality means its wines find their way onto some of the best British wine shelves — including Harvey Nicholls. Naturally, Man O’ War is thrilled to be able to provide knowledgeable British palates with the best Waiheke Island has to offer.

Stokes’ Sales and Marketing Manager, Justin Liddle, says: “I am delighted to be working with Man O’ War Vineyards in the UK, a really outstanding producer that shares our philosophy for having fun while achieving well-planned and executed success.

“Man O’ War is at the start of a very exciting adventure which I am so pleased to be part of and look forward to developing a long-standing partnership.”

Man O’ War’s winemaker Duncan McTavish will be attending the launch, at a venue to be announced, with the owners of Man O’ War and Sales & Marketing Manager Sara Fogarty.

McTavish is no stranger to European shores: after graduating from Lincoln university in New Zealand as the inaugural graduate of the Bachelor of Viticulture and Oenology degree program in 1998, he travelled the world studying — and tasting at — some of the great wine growing regions of the world, including Burgundy and the Rheingau. He brings that experience to Man O’ War, with a goal of creating iconic New Zealand wines.

Man O’ War is family owned and all estate grown, found at the eastern end of Waiheke Island. The vineyards are a stunning spread of coastal hillsides — 150 acres of vines spread over 90 individual parcels selected specifically for their terroir and microclimate. It’s this attention to detail that produces such individual wines. British drinkers will love it.

Man O’ War is family owned and all estate grown, found at the eastern end of Waiheke Island. The vineyards are a stunning spread of coastal hillsides — 150 acres of vines spread over 90 individual parcels selected specifically for their terroir and microclimate. It’s this attention to detail that produces such individual wines. British drinkers will love it.