Stonecroft
Gimblett Gravels Ruhanui Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon 2024 750ml

The 2024 vintage will go down as one of the finest ever seen in Hawke's Bay.

A cool, extended flowering period in spring 2023 resulted in lower than average yields naturally concentrating flavours. The remainder of the growing season was near perfect, with warm days and cool nights allowing the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly.

VINEYARD - Cornerstone and Mere Road: Located on the southern banks of the Ngaruroro River in the famed Gimblett Gravels sub-region. Planted on young, deep alluvial gravels that are free draining and encourage low yields andconcentra ted flavour. A sub-region that has naturally low rainfall and high sunshine hours.

FRUIT HANDLING & FERMENTATION -  Hand-picked. 100% Destemmed to open top fermenters and hand plunged twice daily. 2 to 3 weeks post ferment maturation. Pressed directly to barrel for malolactic fermentation. 14 months in French barriques. 10% new. 30% one year old. 60% older