Erica Crawford visited New York last week to share her story and her new collection of wines. To sum it up, first she fell in love with a man, then she fell in love with a vineyard with a view.

Originally from South Africa, Erica met Kim Crawford, fell in love and moved to New Zealand. The duo established their eponymous winery, with an initial investment of $20,000, which went on to achieve wide acclaim. The Crawfords later sold the winery to Vincor in 2003, which was ultimately acquired by Constellation Brands.

Although the sale was a boon to their financial fortunes, it also meant that they had to stay out of the winemaking game for a period of time and are prohibited from using their name on any new ventures.

Now, they are back in business with a new brand: Loveblock Wines. Having fallen in love with the view, Erica appropriately named the vineyards Loveblock. They are situated within the Awatere Valley of New Zealand’s Marlborough region and are planted to Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris. The couple also produce a Pinot Noir from fruit grown in Central Otago’s Bendigo Loop Road.

While not all of their land is certified organic (Loveblock Farm’s anchor Estate Vineyard is), they are committed to sustainable winegrowing, seeking to limit their use of chemicals and using ethics to guide their decisions throughout their processes. Their use of a dandelion on the label reflects their philosophy and dedication to this approach.

Tasting these wines at Grand Banks, a boat-based bar, docked off Manhattan’s Pier 25, it was evident that these are well-made wines that were the perfect pairing with the summer-centric selection of oysters, scallop ceviche, French fries and lobster rolls.

Sauvignon Blanc – fresh, unctuous, citrus and herbal, long length

Pinot Gris – bright acidity and notes of citrus and pear, nicely textured

Pinot Noir – nice earth and cherry fruit