Blank CanvasProducer from Hawke's Bay, New Zealand

Founded in 2013 by award-winning international winemaking consultant Matt Thomson and New Zealand South Islands' first-ever Master of Wine, Sophie Parker-Thomson MW, Blank Canvas Winery has quickly established itself as a force to be reckoned with in the wine industry. Besides being talented winemakers, Matt and Sophie are also a couple who share a deep love for both science and art. With over 40 years of combined experience, this dynamic duo crafts small-batch artisanal wines from their home in Marlborough and has expanded their operations to include sites in Hawke's Bay and Central Otago.

From the very beginning, the focus of Blank Canvas Winery has been on creating wines that express the unique character and individuality of each vineyard site. Matt and Sophie's passion for single vineyard expression shines through in every bottle they produce. Their travels and experiences in Europe have greatly influenced their winemaking approach, resulting in wines that are characterized by elegance and restraint.

"One of the most exciting labels to come out of Marlborough in the past decade." - Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous

"Blank Canvas wines consistently exhibit a balance between power and finesse, capturing the essence of Marlborough's terroir." - Wine Spectator

One of the distinguishing features of Blank Canvas wines is their natural winemaking style, which combines authenticity with precision. They believe in allowing the grapes to express themselves fully, using wild fermentation and avoiding filtration to preserve the wine's natural flavors and aromas. The result is a range of wines that are clean and free from faults, yet retain a captivating sense of character and terroir.

Blank Canvas Reed Chardonnay:

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this Chardonnay showcases the unique characteristics of Marlborough. The name "Reed" refers to the vineyard site where the grapes are grown, reflecting Blank Canvas' commitment to single vineyard expression. Renowned wine expert Julia Harding MW of JancisRobinson.com has praised the excellence of Blank Canvas Winery's Reed Chardonnay, describing its texture and reductiveness as "very Coche Dury" in style. 

Blank Canvas Element Syrah:

The Element Syrah produced by Blank Canvas Winery also stands out for its distinctive characteristics. With its notable pepperiness, it evokes comparisons to the wines of Côte-Rôtie in the Rhône Valley rather than the typical New Zealand Syrah. This unexpected expression showcases the winery's commitment to pushing the boundaries and challenging preconceived notions.

Blank Canvas Escaroth Pinot Noir:

This Pinot Noir is a beautifully balanced and seductive wine. It surprises the palate with its elegance, complexity, and beguiling charm. Blank Canvas Winery's Pinot Noirs have also garnered critical acclaim, with wine expert Rebecca Gibb MW of Vinous stating that they are likely to "turn your opinion of Marlborough Pinot Noir upside down."