Hawke’s Bay’s western ranges and the volcanic peaks of the Central Plateau are integral to the character of the inland vineyards of Hawke’s Bay. They not only provide shelter from the prevailing westerly weather, but over millennia have also been the source of deep gravel beds, windblown loess and volcanic ash that make up these exceptional viticultural soils. Mountains were often personified as giants in legend, and in naming this wine we imagined a tale of Titans in a violent struggle, raining rock and ash into the plains and valleys below. A past of tectonic upheaval, fractured rock and and fiery volcanos, belied by the quiet pastoral landscapes of today.

A particularly intriguing chardonnay, quite unlike any other I have made. Exceptionally complex, yet not in a showy way, it has a structure that epitomises the notion of restrained power. A concentration and presence that is drawn out, linear and lithe rather than broad shouldered and heavy set. The fruit profile includes subtle white peach, clementine, cashew and a hint of orange blossom laced with subtle struck match / gunsmoke, roasted nut, shortbread and spice including clove, nutmeg and mace, there is a mineral element to the aromatics too, suggestive of petrichor / hot stone and iron. On the palate, the wine is full but bone dry and very tightly focused, driven by an excellent acid line, grainy stone like texture and a savoury, saline finish that makes it an exceptionally good food wine. 

We expect The Stone Giants to age gracefully for 10 years or more from vintage date.