An organic take on this rare variety in NZ. Instead of aiming for the heavy Californian style, Stonecroft use Gimblett Gravels' moderate heat to make this sun-loving grape into a red that's fresh, bright and spicy. A vibrant example and a nice sidestep for Zin enthusiasts, it's also something different for any fan of the Gravels. Small volume and rare in retail -- to drink or cellar.
The first winery to be established in the Gimblett Gravels Wine growing District, Stonecroft is a small boutique winery owned by Dermot McCollum and Andria Monin, who bought the property in 2010 and live on the Roy’s Hill Vineyard with their two children. Stonecroft is well known for its Syrah, Zinfandel, Gewürztraminer and Chardonnay wines, and has the claim for the oldest Syrah vines in the country! Only organic practices are used and both the two original vineyards and the winery are fully certified organic with AsureQuality. The third vineyard is in conversion to organic status. Total production is small, with only 2,000 to 2,500 cases produced annually.
"A medium ruby red colour. Aromatics of raspberry, redcurrant and cranberry. Our Zinfandel is a medium bodied red with a fruity bouquet and red flavours, particularly raspberry, together with sweet coconut and vanilla. The fruit is handpicked from just 6 rows in our Roy’s Hill Vineyard. Cellar 3-5 years"
"Elegant zinfandel that's a far cry from the big, jammy Californian monsters that I am more familiar with. However, it does have typical cranberry flavours and a generous oak influence with a spicy finish. Still a tad too youthful but should develop well. 26/5/2017"