This sub-region of Hawke’s Bay on New Zealand’s North Island continues forging its path with red wines that have as much elegance as they have power.
It was with the 2018 vintage that this small sub-region celebrated its 40th anniversary. Its first vines were not planted until 1981 – you can read about the history here. Since then, its evolution as a region for structured yet elegant red wines, made from Bordeaux varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc as well as Syrah has astounded critics around the world. And while New Zealand is famous for its Pinot Noirs, this is the spot that offers a difference in red wines.
What makes the Gimblett Gravels special beyond the particular soils of ancient, dried out riverbeds, is the climate: this is where the cooling winds of the Pacific meet the warm, sunny and Mediterranean climate of the North Island, ripening grapes with much flavour but also freshness. The result is a mix of vivid fruit and real elegance.
Unsettled weather during flowering spelled reduced yields of about 15-20% and in summer sufficient rain meant that irrigation was hardly needed. It was the dry, steady weather during harvest that allowed growers to choose their picking dates without disease pressure or impending rain. The result are, once again, lovely wines of real balance.
