Red alert
New Zealand is mostly white-wine country – more than 80% of the national vineyard area is planted in white-wine grapes. However, in Hawke’s Bay, our second-largest wine region, more than 40% of the vines are earmarked for red-wine production.
Merlot dominates in Hawke’s Bay, followed by syrah. Pinot noir is also planted widely – more so than cabernet sauvignon, malbec or cabernet franc. “Hawke’s Bay pinot noir seems to be a bit of a local secret,” says Sara Macdonald, of Monowai Estate. The region’s winegrowers harvested far more pinot noir for red wine in 2021 than those in the Wairarapa, Nelson or North Canterbury.
Askerne Hawke’s Bay Pinot Noir 2021
Grown on river terraces near Havelock North, this ruby-hued red was matured for nine months in French oak casks. Full-bodied, fresh and sweet-fruited, it has strong, lively cherry, plum and spice flavours, savoury notes adding complexity and supple tannins. $23
You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.
Start your free 30 days