Taka K Tussock Terrace Riesling 2023

A floral, spice-driven North Canterbury riesling, modelled on the great styles of Germany. The Real Review's #1 2023 New Zealand Riesling.  

96 Points, The Real Review
Pale white-gold. Initially reticent, with air it blossoms into a soaring bouquet with delicate layers of floral, sweet spiced citrus, flint and pith. The palate is ripe with bright, intense citrus and stone-fruit flavours, fantastic power and depth, savoury hints of bacon fat, pastry and vanilla on the long, long finish. A very successful example in the Germanic model: an impressive wine with a density and age-ability that seems like etched marble. Expect it to develop gracefully for a long time. Drink 2024-2042. – Stephen Wong MW

While studying Viticulture and Oenology at Lincoln University, Japanese-born Takahiro Koyama quickly developed a passion for riesling, pinot noir and chardonnay. He quickly secured vintages at the historic Weingut Keller in the Rheinhessen, where the elusive secrets of riesling were taught. Continuing his education, Takahiro travelled to California where he quickly impressed the prodigious Jim Clendenen at Au Bon Climat. Takahiro remained there for two vintages, studying the art of crafting chardonnay and pinot noir. Returning home to New Zealand, Takahiro, always seeking a mentor to guide him, was quickly enamoured with Mountford Estate's CP Lin, a winemaker of considerable renown who, while legally blind, built a reputation for crafting some of the countries best chardonnay and pinot noir.

Now Takahiro is out to pave his own way, founding Taka K in 2023, it is safe to say that these wines carry with them all of the learnings and profound expertise of one of the finest winemakers in New Zealand.