Te Whare Ra Toru

Te Whare Ra (also known as TWR) are not only one of Marlborough’s classiest producers of the aromatic styles but they’re one of the most down to earth, loveable Kiwi winemaking families you’ll ever come across.

Established in 1979 it makes them one of the oldest wine producers in the Marlborough area. Owned since 2003 by Anna and Jason Flowerday (Jason’s a Marlborough boy, Anna is from South Australia’s McLaren Vale) the team has now expanded to two sets of twin daughters (the all singing, all dancing quartet who occasionally jump on Pinot grapes at harvest time), a herd of Red Devon cows (vineyard mowers, manure spreaders and occasionally a nice slab of beef for the dinner table!) and several dogs (usually the first to greet visitors to the winery!).

So yep, life has kept them very busy – and with four young girls growing up leaving Jason a little concerned about going grey early!

Their boutique 11 hectare vineyard is managed with organic and biodynamic practices in mind. With yields low and all fruit being hand picked and hand sorted, the quality is right up there and backed by rave reviews every vintage.

This is their iconic ‘Toru’ label (meaning three in Maori) – a co-blend of three varieties in gewürztraminer, riesling and pinot gris. First produced in 2006 they were the first in NZ to produce this style.

This is their latest 2022 release which scored 94/100 with Master of Wine Bob Campbell who said “An initial hint of sweetness is perfectly balanced by refreshing acidity that drives a lengthy finish. Lime, green apple, white flowers and ginger are some of the more evident flavours. A single vineyard field blend of gewürztraminer, riesling and pinot gris combining to give a vibrant and mouthwatering wine. Distinctively different..”

This is a great aperetif style wine or paired with spicy Asian and Indian cuisine.