In episode 244 of The Drinking Hour, David Kermode meets with Jeremy McKenzie, winemaker at Isabel Estate in Marlborough, one of the early pioneers of New Zealand’s wine boom.
A region synonymous with Sauvignon Blanc, the success of its flagship grape can sometimes be viewed with frustration, as many winemakers are looking to champion other grapes from the region, such as the spectacular Chardonnay that grows in the area. Throughout this episode the pair frequently take a look at the quality of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from Marlborough in depth, whilst taking a look at the pioneering winemakers who are raising the profile of other grape varieties across the region.
The pair look at the history of both Isabel Estate and Marlborough as a whole – a relatively new wine region which has seen a huge rise in popularity in recent years. McKenzie talks about the estate’s founder, Mike Tiller, and how he came across the land which now houses Isabel Estate by frequently seeing it on flights over the island. Today it still remains under the stewardship of the Tiller family, nearly 50 years on. Listen to episode 244 of The Drinking Hour now to learn more about Marlborough from one of the region’s most celebrated winemakers.
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