The 2008 Reserve Pinot Gris has a very nuanced, minimal nose that is supremely well defined with subtle notes of dried pineapple, jasmine, apple peel and hazelnut. The palate has more depth of flavor than the regular Pinot Gris with honeyed notes and quince on the entry, a hint of pear and honeycomb on the mid-palate and then spice and almond interlacing the crisp finish. This is very well crafted Pinot Gris with an Alsace pedigree. Drink now-2013. Warren Gibson is one of Hawkes Bay’s most thoughtful, artisan producers. His Collina Syrah is one of New Zealand’s finest and I suspect will be one of its most long-lived wines. The 2007 was racked less than previous vintages as Warren feels that the wine prefers less intervention. In 2008, his small portfolio is joined by a La Collina white, a wine that should appease those hankering after a Southern Rhone, whilst the Reserve Pinot Gris is made in a slightly drier style that is a refreshing change from the many left with excessive residual sugar to appease the masses.