Coopers Creek was founded by Andrew and Cynthia Hendry in 1980, which was certainly in the early days of New Zealand wine production and development – the first commercial vintage of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc was released by Brancott Estate in 1979. Of course Coopers Creek make very good Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, however what is of interest to The Wine Tipster is their production of quality wines from white varieties like Albariño, Arneis, Viognier, Gruner Veltliner (Yealands Estate also make a very good Gruner) and the red variety Montepulciano (look out for Framingham’s excellent Montepulciano too) because these varieties will continue to grow in popularity in New Zealand.

Albariño produced in north west Spain and can sometimes be an overpriced disappointment, however there is no doubt that “Bell Ringer” Gisborne Albariño 2012, abv 12%, Coopers Creek,  £13.99, is right on the money, with  floral, pear, quince and appley notes on the nose; this dry wine has lovely, creamy mouthfeel and texture on the palate.  Contact the UK agent Berkmann Wine Cellars @BerkmannWine  for stockists.