Puriri Hills

To paraphrase the ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus, ‘big results require big ambitions.’ Puriri Hills, which takes its name from the native Puriri tree, is a producer that isn’t found wanting on either front. From the outset, the lodestar for Puriri Hills’ owner-winemaker (and former chemical engineer) Judy Fowler was the finest Right Bank Bordeaux: Cheval Blanc, Figeac, Pavie et al. Ambitious, for sure. But when, in 2020, critic Bob Campbell MW declared Puriri Hills New Zealand’s top winery, such a lofty goal was no longer a mere flight of fancy. Obsessed by Bordeaux blends, Judy planted her vineyards, in 1997, to Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Carmenère, producing a select clutch of seductive wines which perpetually belie their price tag. Puriri Hills walks its own path in many ways, as evidenced not least by extensively bottle ageing its coveted Pope cuvée up to eight years after vintage, meaning each is hitting its drinking window on release. At just 2.5ha, this is the smallest winery we work with, and we’re honoured to bring its wines into the UK.