Maxim Wines
Art & Craft Collection Chenin Blanc 2022 750ml

Review (Joelle Thomson; 17.5/20; RRP $28)

“Chenin Blanc is one of the greatest white grape varieties and it thrives in most regions of

New Zealand, making many wonder why it is made in such miniscule volumes. Hawke’s Bay

winemaker Darragh Hughes created this lively, fresh and lightly aromatic Chenin from

grapes grown in Gisborne on a one hectare owned by the Briant family. The wine was made

in Gisborne with cool temperature fermentation in stainless steel retaining fruit aromas

while monthly lees stirring has built body and weight in this wine. The acidity is moderate

but adds zesty depth and length to each sip, adding a sense of succulence and juiciness.”

Story & Making

A playful nod to “taking” grapes from another region—just taste the result! Darragh crafts

Chenin Blanc from two different New Zealand regions. This wine was grown and made in

Gisborne under his direction. The fruit comes from the Briant family’s vineyard, where just

one hectare is planted to Chenin. Picked, crushed and pressed to tank; fermented with a

commercial yeast to enhance classic Gisborne Chenin characters. Lees stirred monthly for

five months to build the mid‐palate.

Tasting

Highly aromatic and bright with a fresh, crisp profile. Works with many foods and is

beautifully refreshing on a hot summer’s day.

Tasting Notes

Fresh, bright floral aromas of apple, citrus and tropical notes. The palate is vibrant with

great mouthfeel—red apple and honey layered with texture from lees stirring; lively acidity

gives the wine length.

Review (Joelle Thomson; 17.5/20; RRP $28)

“Chenin Blanc is one of the greatest white grape varieties and it thrives in most regions of

New Zealand, making many wonder why it is made in such miniscule volumes. Hawke’s Bay

winemaker Darragh Hughes created this lively, fresh and lightly aromatic Chenin from

grapes grown in Gisborne on a one hectare owned by the Briant family. The wine was made

in Gisborne with cool temperature fermentation in stainless steel retaining fruit aromas

while monthly lees stirring has built body and weight in this wine. The acidity is moderate

but adds zesty depth and length to each sip, adding a sense of succulence and juiciness.”