Oz Clarke is one of the world's leading wine experts.
Clarke has been writing about wine since the 80's, starting as Britain's Sunday Express' first wine writer, and then moving over to become the Daily Telegraph's first Wine Correspondent.
He's written over forty books on the topic, recently releasing another: 'Oz Clarke’s Story of Wine: 8000 Years, 100 Bottles.'
Clarke has been wandering New Zealand, reacquainting himself with the best the industry has to offer, speaking at two inaugural winegrowers events as he does so.
He was last here in 2016, and told Newstalk ZB's Mike Hosking that since his last visit he's seen confidence come back into Chardonnay.
"It's about time," he said.
"New Zealand makes fantastic Chardonnay, a lot of the best Chardonnay in the world."
Clarke says it comes down to the fruit New Zealand winemakers have available to them.
"I often say to winemakers, 'don't be frightened of it.'"
"People would love to have the fruit that you have in New Zealand."
He placed an emphasis on New Zealand wines being different to those produced elsewhere, admitting to Hosking that he's "full of excitement."
"So my general feeling is that, that the place is in a pretty good, good state."
New Zealand is known for its Sauvignon Blancs, and while there is an idea that the popularity can't last, Clarke doesn't necessarily agree.
"The Sauvignon Blanc is not going to fade away, so long as you go on making it well."
LISTEN ABOVE
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Amy Robach & T.J. Holmes present: Aubrey O’Day, Covering the Diddy Trial
Introducing… Aubrey O’Day Diddy’s former protege, television personality, platinum selling music artist, Danity Kane alum Aubrey O’Day joins veteran journalists Amy Robach and TJ Holmes to provide a unique perspective on the trial that has captivated the attention of the nation. Join them throughout the trial as they discuss, debate, and dissect every detail, every aspect of the proceedings. Aubrey will offer her opinions and expertise, as only she is qualified to do given her first-hand knowledge. From her days on Making the Band, as she emerged as the breakout star, the truth of the situation would be the opposite of the glitz and glamour. Listen throughout every minute of the trial, for this exclusive coverage. Amy Robach and TJ Holmes present Aubrey O’Day, Covering the Diddy Trial, an iHeartRadio podcast.
Good Hang with Amy Poehler
Come hang with Amy Poehler. Each week on her podcast, she'll welcome celebrities and fun people to her studio. They'll share stories about their careers, mutual friends, shared enthusiasms, and most importantly, what's been making them laugh. This podcast is not about trying to make you better or giving advice. Amy just wants to have a good time.