Earth Garden Pinot Gris
⏳ Drinking Window
2023 - 2026
🍽️ Food & Wine Pairings
Complements mild aromatic Asian cuisine such as Thai green curry, roasted pork loin with apple sauce, or fresh grilled seafood.
✨ Technical Specifications
Villa Maria, founded in 1961 by Sir George Fistonich, has long been a pioneer in New Zealand winemaking. The 'Earth Garden' range represents a deep commitment to ecological harmony, crafted from 100% organically grown grapes certified by BioGro. Sourced from the warm, sun-drenched vineyards of Hawke's Bay on the North Island, this Pinot Gris thrives in gravelly, free-draining soils influenced by moderating maritime breezes. The viticultural approach focuses on nurturing living soils to enhance the vines' natural immunity. In the cellar, gentle pressing and cool fermentation in stainless steel tanks preserve the vibrant, natural fruit characters, resulting in a rich, aromatic expression of ripe pear, red apple, and subtle ginger spice, rounded out by brief contact on yeast lees for added texture.
🍾 About the Producer
Founded in 1961 by Sir George Fistonich, Villa Maria stands as one of New Zealand's most celebrated and pioneering wine producers. From its historic roots in Auckland, the winery has established extensive vineyard holdings across the premier winegrowing regions of Marlborough, Hawke's Bay, and Gisborne. Renowned for its steadfast dedication to sustainability and quality innovation, Villa Maria played an instrumental role in shaping modern New Zealand viticulture and championing regional expressiveness. The estate's diverse portfolio ranges from the globally recognized Private Bin series to site-specific single-vineyard and Reserve wines, excelling in vibrant Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, refined Pinot Noir, complex Chardonnay, and structured Hawke's Bay red blends.