Stonyridge ‘Classic’ Waiheke: 28 May 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 worldclass wines, Stonyridge is just a great place to eat, share a glass or three while looking out across the vines, being entertained by regular live music 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 outstanding range of wines. From their early, drinking now ‘Fallen Angel’ range ideal for relaxed occasions. Or if you are looking for a more engaging wine experience, there is their ‘Reserve’ series of wines, which are outstanding Waiheke wines. Then there are the three character wines below, which are part of the ‘Luna’ series and the classic right-bank inspired cuvée which gives an early insight to the character of the ‘Larose’ of the same vintage, the much sought after ‘Airfield’.
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 quality seasonal cuisine, along with special friends this coming season. I promise, your taste-buds will thank you.
*(These wines are available at the winery, online & selected locations, and most importantly are ready to sip, savour and share now, plus can also age).
Stonyridge ‘Luna Dorada’ Chardonnay 2022 : 5 Stars ★★★★★
Grape Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
Growing Region: Waiheke Island - New Zealand
Winemakers: Stephen White & Martin Pickering
This ‘Gold Moon’ Chardonnay is crafted from the finest clones of the Corton Charlemagne area in Burgundy-France. Grown on a sunny east-facing hillside, ripening to a golden perfection. Hand-harvested, whole bunch pressed and run straight to barrel with no fining or settling for natural fermentation in 60% new French oak. Very small production.
★ Aromas of grilled pineapple, honeysuckle, pop-corn, vanilla cream and almond biscotti. The palate has a genuine style and grace. A luscious first impression with melon, peaches, grilled pineapple, good splash of citrus acidity, a deft minerality and all thoughtfully wrapped in vanilla oak. The wine has a charming elegance, perfectly infusing vineyard with a hands-off winemaking approach resulting in a dynamic expression with a bright dry finish.
• Chill gently & serve between 8°- 10°C : 13.5% Alc. : Classic Dry Style : Cellar 2 - 3 years : *NZ$120.00
Stonyridge ‘Luna Negra’ Hillside Malbec 2021 : 4 Stars ★★★★
Grape Varietal: 100% Malbec
Growing Region: Waiheke Island - New Zealand
Winemakers: Stephen White & Martin Pickering
The fruit for this wine came from their own ‘Vina del Mar’ vineyard site, which overlooks the idyllic Onetangi Bay. The vines are grown on a steep northeast-facing slope and meticulous work in the vineyard producing low yields to control the varietal energy and resulting in this ‘Black Moon’ Malbec that is consistently a popular wine.
★ On the inviting nose dark berry fruits and dried herb aromas are hypnotising. These enticing nuances carry through and reveal all on the engaging and luscious palate, and seamlessly served with a fine silky texture. The vivacious dark berry fruits are joined with a note of warm cinnamon and mocha-chocolate. All supported by integrated and nicely balanced smooth fruit tannins and the restrained use of oak resulting in a wine with a moreish finish.
• Mild decanting & serve between 16°- 18°C : 14.5% Alc. : Classic Dry Style : Cellar 5 - 6 years : *NZ$130.00
Stonyridge ‘Airfield’ Bordeaux Cuvée 2022 : 5 Stars ★★★★★
Grape Varietals: 45% Merlot, 19% Malbec, 19% Cab-Franc, 16% Petit Verdot & 1% Syrah
Growing Region: Waiheke Island - New Zealand
Winemakers: Stephen White & Martin Pickering
For those in the know, the left-bank of Bordeaux has at its core Cabernet Sauvignon, and the right-bank like this 'Airfield' cuvée is a balanced expression of a Merlot leading wine. A detailed and perfectly assembled composition that can be enjoyed much earlier than their ‘Larose’ cuvée, which repays at least 8-10 years in the bottle before opening.
★ On the nose small wild berries, with dark cherries, plums, star anise and cinnamon from time in oak. The appealing medium-to-full palate has a casually confident embrace, with smooth tannins, ripe berries and bitter chocolate served with fine grained texture from diligent time in French oak. Resulting in a multi-layered indulgence, all kept relevant and perfectly energised across the palate by balanced fruit acidity and a dynamic lingering finish.
• Broad-based Decanting 45-60 mins : Serve 16°- 18°C : 13.5% Alc. : Dry Style : Cellar 7 - 8 years : *NZ$68.00
*(Stonyridge Wines availability & pricing will vary by outlet & country)