Stonyridge ‘carved from stone’ • 10 November 2024
For those of you who have not yet had the opportunity to visit Stonyridge Vineyards on Waiheke Island in New Zealand - their vineyards, winery, olive grove and restaurant sit in one of the most beautiful of locations in the country. Even without the outstanding wines, Stonyridge is just a great place to eat, share a glass or three while looking out across the vines, protected by the western stony-ridge and embraced by the 40-year-old olive grove. Then for those lucky enough, the opportunity to enjoy an aged bottle of their iconic Bordeaux red wine blend, the highly acclaimed Stonyridge ‘Larose’.
The images I have described are only a small drop in the ocean of the experiences you can have at Stonyridge. This is also true of their dynamic range of wines. From their early drinking ‘Fallen Angel’ range ideal for relaxed occasions. Or if you are looking for a more engaging wine experience, there are their ‘Reserve’ series of wines, which express the terroir of Waiheke. Along with these three-character wines below, yes, I was kindly given samples for an early review..., are charismatic and give an insight to the character of these island wines and their winemaking philosophy.
Stephen & Martin have crafted an expressive range of wines, sourced from vineyards grown on the island. The following three wines are definitely worth sharing with fresh local cuisine, along with special friends this coming season. I promise, your tastebuds will thank you.
*(These wines are soon to be available at the winery & online, and most importantly are ready to sip, savour and share now, plus can also age).
Stonyridge ‘La Bodega’ Pinot Gris 2024
Grape Varietal: 100% Pinot Gris
Growing Region: Waiheke Island - New Zealand
Winemakers: Stephen White & Martin Pickering
The fruit for this engaging wine was grown in a warm sheltered site amongst the western hills of the island. After the fruit was harvested it was 100% barrel fermented in a mix of aged French oak. Where it developed for around 6 months before tasting and bottling under screwcap.
★ On the hypnotic aroma you have rose petals, meadow flowers, clifftop herbs, nashi pear skin, green peppers & cinnamon dusted peaches. This wine has a broad engagement across the palate. The fruit has a generosity, with a fleshy texture and luscious nature, kept fresh by sweet lime juice acidity and mineral outbreaks that spotlight the ripe peaches and pears that command your attention and give structure to a bold expression and lingering finish.
◆ Chill gently & serve 8°- 10°C • 14% Alc. • Generous Style • Cellar 2 - 3 years • *NZ$55.00
Stonyridge ‘Reserve’ Chardonnay 2023
Grape Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
Growing Region: Waiheke Island - New Zealand
Winemakers: Stephen White & Martin Pickering
The fruit for this wine was grown at their own ‘Vina del Mar’ vineyard block overlooking the Hauraki Gulf. After the fruit was harvested it was 100% barrel fermented in 50% new French oak and the rest in mixed ages. Where it developed for nearly 12 months before tasting and bottling under screwcap.
★ On the inviting aroma you have subtle citrus nuances, ripe apples, peaches, popcorn and a hint of chalk. On the engaging palate your senses are overwhelmed by lemon drops, peach skin, lightly buttered popcorn and a dexterous meandering mineral seam guided by vanilla oak. The wine has a deft almond grain, with multi-layered characters elevated by good fruit acidity and a splash of grapefruit for lift on the charismatic dismount.
◆ Serve chilled 8°- 10°C • 13% Alc. • Classic Dry Style • Cellar 5 - 6 years • *NZ$65.00
Stonyridge ‘Pilgrim’ S.M.V.G. 2022
Grape Varietals: 95% Syrah, 3% Mourvèdre, 1% Viognier & 1% Grenache
Growing Region: Waiheke Island - New Zealand
Winemakers: Stephen White & Martin Pickering
The varietals for this articulate Rhône cuvée were grown in unique sites across the island, achieving a rich palette of aromas and flavours to work with. After the fruit parcels were fermented the cuvée was transferred into 30% new French oak, where it developed for 20 months before tasting & bottling under cork.
★ On the inviting aroma you have white pepper, flint smoke, dried herbs, dark plums, liquorice and a note of allspice. The palate is medium to full in generosity and expressing fleshy dark fruit nuances defined by fine tannins, and gently delivered with soft even smooth level of acidity giving the wine a refined elegance. The diligent use of oak has given structure and ideal backdrop to reflect a hint of liquorice and flint, combining to give a velvety dry finish.
◆ Mild Decanting 30-45 mins • Serve 16°- 18°C • 14% Alc. • Classic Dry Style • Cellar 6 - 7 years • *NZ$120.00
*(Stonyridge Wines availability, vintages & pricing will vary by outlet & country)