The Bone Line

The Boneline label from the Waipara Valley, North Canterbury, grew from the Waipara West operation, but instead of making wines that suited the European markets, The Boneline was to be focussed on the Australian and New Zealand palate. The Boneline is the family partnership of London-based Paul Tutton, his artist wife Olga Sienko, and his sister Vic Tutton who is based on the vineyard with her husband Lindsay Hill who is the viticulturist. The wines come from 25 ha of vines planted from 1989, with Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Riesling in white, and Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc with some Syrah in red. Behind the change of style were the inputs of the highly respected winegrower Jeff Sinnott, who has been assisted by Paul Goodege. Paul is now the winemaker but Jeff Sinnott remains as consultant. With the change there has been a rise in popularity of this label. Could The Boneline be the next cult producer in Waipara? RAYMOND CHAN