Stonyridge ‘Reserve’ Selection: 5 December 2023.
When you hear the name Stonyridge Vineyards on Waiheke Island in New Zealand - it conjures up impressions for some of the stunning location that the winery sits. For others; eating, drinking and looking out across the vines, while being entertained by live music and embraced by the 40-year-old olive grove. Then for those lucky enough - the opportunity to enjoy a nicely-aged bottle of their iconic Bordeaux red wine blend the highly acclaimed Stonyridge ‘Larose’.
The memories I have described are only a small drop in the ocean of experiences you can have at Stonyridge. This can also be said of their outstanding range of wines. From their early, drinking now ‘Fallen Angel’ range ideal for all occasions. And for those looking for a more engaging wine experience, there is this ‘Reserve’ series of wines, which in my opinion should be on everyone’s Christmas shopping list. Stephen & Martin have crafted a ‘single varietal’ range of wines, sourced from vineyards grown on either the island or selected from around the country. The following three wines are definitely worth sharing with quality seasonal cuisine, along with special friends and family this festive, summer holiday season. If your family forget, I promise your taste-buds will thank you.
*(These wines are available at the winery / online & selected outlets, and most importantly are ready to sip, savour and share this festive season).
Stonyridge ‘Reserve’ Viognier 2021
Grape Varietal: 100% Viognier
Growing Region: Waiheke Island - New Zealand
Winemakers: Stephen White & Martin Pickering
4 Stars ★★★★
The Viognier fruit is from a coastal vineyard in Church Bay, from a classic warm, dry Waiheke growing season. The ripe fruit was hand harvested in mid-March and whole bunch pressed. Light clarification before fermentation, with some partial barrel fermentation in Acacia barrels, the majority in temperature controlled tanks, then light fining before bottling.
• In your glass a bright straw, lemon colour. On the inviting nose white floral aromas, along with lavender, lemon drops, a hint of peach and fresh apple tart. These unfold onto the confident palate, showcasing those fleshy peaches, honey-due-melon, steamed apple skins, drizzled with honeysuckle. The time in Acadia barrels has softened its natural acidity, but not blunted any of its vitality, tinted by a deft minerality on a luxurious lingering finish.
• Chill gently & serve between 8°- 9°C : 13% Alc. - Dry Style : Cellar 2 - 3 years : *NZ$64.00
Stonyridge ‘Reserve’ Chardonnay 2018
Grape Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
Growing Region: Waiheke Island - New Zealand
Winemakers: Stephen White & Martin Pickering
5 Stars ★★★★★
2018 was a good vintage for white varietals across the Auckland region, and in particular on Waiheke Island. The hand harvested fruit was whole bunch pressed, and 100% barrel fermentation taking place in French Oak, with 30% being new barrels. The wine was aged for 10 months ‘sur lies’ before a light fining and bottling.
• A rich summer gold colour. An engaging bouquet of ripe peaches, fresh pastry, popcorn and hint of brioche. These generous nuances are harmonised by an orchestra of flavours that give a luscious performance. Its confidence exploring all corners of your palate, celebrating ripe stone fruits, grilled pineapple, lemon curd, defined minerality and wrapped in vanilla oak. These generous characters are well-balanced and lead to a memorable finish.
• Chill gently & serve between 8°- 10°C : 13.5% Alc. - Classic dry style : Cellar 1 - 2 years : *NZ$64.00
Stonyridge ‘Reserve’ Pinot Noir 2020
Grape Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
Growing Region: Martinborough - New Zealand
Winemakers: Stephen White & Martin Pickering
4 Stars ★★★★
2020 was a great vintage across the country with Martinborough being no exception, warm, dry settled weather throughout the growing season. Ripe fruit was hand-harvested in March and early April. 100% destemmed into open top fermenters and plunged daily for 20 days. Then pressed off to used French oak barrels for 10 months, before bottling.
• A deep, black cherry colour will consume your glass. The complex bouquet has wild spices, forest floor nuances, steeped dark cherries, plums and black olive notes. The wild forest berry flavours and raw intensity from an exceptionally warm, long growing season has resulted in a broad expression. The diligent plunging extracting liquorice, and an earthiness, tailored by time in French oak, giving a deft smokiness to its lingering finish.
• Good decanting & serve between 16°- 17°C : 13.5% Alc. - Dry style : Cellar 4 - 5 years : *NZ$64.00
*(Stonyridge Wines availability & pricing will vary by outlet & country)