West Brook Winery Auckland

One of my favourite Kumeu wineries which I frequently visit on my wine tours is West Brook.  Situated in Waimauku next to the Riverhead pine forest, the vineyard and winery sit among landscaped manicured lawns with a placid duck pond and neat rows of vines climbing the slopes beyond.  Third generation Croatian winemaker Anthony Ivicevich and his charming wife Susan own the small family business,  which has been in operation since 1935. The Cellar Door welcomes visitors 7 days a week, with picnic tables, petanque, giant chess and BBQ facilities available.  Deli foods are available from the cooler.

Anyway to the wines:

Waimauku Pinot Gris 2012 $26.00
Delicate and elegant with mineral notes on the palate and a deliciously crisp finish.  Flavours of Nashi pear, quinine and Braeburn apple.

Barrique Fermented Chardonnay 2011  $22.90
Made from a blend of Waimauku and Marlborough fruit.  Toasty oak and lush flavours of peach and  pear, with a hint of yeasty brioche.

Waimauku Estate Chardonnay 2011  $29.50
All home vineyard fruit. Citrus, stone fruit and toast with a mineral crisp finish.

Waimauku Pinot Noir 2011 $26.00
Light and elegant with cherry/berry red fruit flavours with earthy undertones.

Waimauku Estate Malbec 2010 $ $32.00
Ripe and full with black fruit intensity and spicy, savoury flavours. Medium tannins and lengthy palate.  Drinking beautifully now, but could cellar for another 3 years.

West Brook Winery
215 Ararimu Valley Road  Kumeu
09 411 9924 www.westbrook.co.nz  
Open 7 Days  Mon – Fri 9.00 to 5.00 Sat 10.00 am to  5.00 pm Sun 11.00 am to 5.00 pm

Phil Parker is a wine writer and operates Fine Wine & Food Tours in Auckland.

www.insidertouring.co.nz