27 November 2014
Selaks Celebrates 80 Year Heritage
New ‘halo tier’ range of Founders wines launched
Respect for the brand’s creators and a celebration of its heritage are at the heart of the re-launch this month of a
limited release range of Selaks Founders wines.
Re-introduced to commemorate the celebrated brand’s 80th anniversary, Selaks Founders Wines are a rare treat only
previously produced in recognition of Mate Selak’s passing in 1991.
Mate was the nephew of the brand’s founder Marino and took the reins from him in 1947 going on to forge a great New
Zealand wine business. Sadly, this year Mate’s wife Matija - affectionately known as May and one of the last true
pioneers of the New Zealand wine industry - passed away aged 90.
Now Selaks head winemaker Brett Fullerton and his team have honoured the brand’s traditions creating a range of
outstanding wines in honour of its remarkable anniversary.
The Selaks Founders range comprises five varietals that focus on regional strengths – Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay and Pinot
Gris*, a Gimblett Gravels® Merlot, Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and Central Otago Pinot Noir.
Fullerton says the wines represent the pinnacle of Selaks’ winemaking expertise.
“The Founders range is our ‘halo tier’ and it builds on our winemaking credentials that stretch back more than three
generations. Marino Selak – our founder – always saved his most treasured grapes to produce special wines for friends
and family.
“We wanted to honour this tradition and the Selaks Founders is the result.”
Brett says Selaks has had two excellent grape growing seasons which has provided the brand with great choice when it
comes to selecting the wines.
With three 2013 vintages and two from 2014, the range comprises 500-odd cases of the white varietals, 450 of the
Gimblett Gravels® Merlot and only 250 cases of the Central Otago Pinot Noir.
The range is about selecting and showcasing only the finest wine available. Each bottle is individually numbered and
those lucky enough to get a bottle can register its number on line and receive exclusive information from Brett on the
wines and access to future vintage releases ahead of time.
“Quality is always at the heart of every Selaks wine but the Founders Range represents the true pinnacle of the
winemaking process and is a fitting tribute to those pioneers who set us on the path we have so successfully followed.”
Selaks Founders winemaker’s notes
Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay 2013
A wine for lovers of compelling and complex Chardonnay. Aromatically savoury, smoky and nutty. The palate is long,
weighty and textured, lifted by citrus fruit characters and culminating in a toasty finish. A winning combination with
steak béarnaise or pumpkin ravioli. 560 cases.
Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2014
Take a moment to lose yourself in the wildly fragrant nose of citrus and passionfruit before you embark on a palate of
ripe tropical fruit flavour and layers of mineral complexity. Enjoy with whitebait fritters or a warm baked goats cheese
salad with honey. 550 cases.
Hawke’s Bay Pinot Gris 2014
In this delightfully floral Pinot Gris only the free run juice is used. The result is balanced acidity with just a hint
of apple, pear and Turkish delight. Linger over the flavour on its own before serving with roast scallops and pancetta.
560 cases. Awarded Blue Gold medal at 2015 Sydney International Wine Competition.
Central Otago Pinot Noir 2013
This age-worthy Pinot Noir is dark, rich and has superb tannin structure which will soften over time. Savour the aroma
of dark berry fruit and subtle nuances of spice and oak on the palate. Worthy of your best duck, venison or lamb dish.
250 cases.
Gimblett Gravels® Merlot 2013
Sourced from the legendary Gimblett Gravels Wine Growing District® in Hawke’s Bay, this Merlot is deep in colour and
palate weight. Intense berry fruit and spicy oak flavours contribute to an exquisite flavour journey to the very last
drop. Outstanding with deep savoury dishes and braised meats. 450 cases.
RRPs are reds $39.99 and whites $25.99. Selaks Founders can be purchased from fine wine retailers nationwide or simply
email info@selaks.co.nz for stockist information.
*STOP PRESS: Selaks Founders Hawke’s Bay Pinot Gris 2014 has been awarded a Blue Gold Medal at the Sydney International
Wine Competition 2015 placing it in the top 10 per cent of the 2000 wines entered.
ends