Stonecroft, in the Gimblett Gravels, Hawke’s Bay, have the oldest Zinfandel vines in New Zealand – although even here there are just a few rows at the Roy’s Hill Vineyard. The vines were planted in 1993 – the stock coming from Ravenswood in California, where the varietal is well-regarded. Also common in the south of Italy, these New Zealand plantings would be considered ‘cool climate’ for the grape. The colour is a medium ruby colour in the glass, and the perfume is also on the bright, elegant side rather than the slightly jammy version from warmer climates. Scented with plum, cherry, cinnamon, redcurrant, cranberry and cocoa. American oak shows on the palate, with coconut, pepper and toast notes. The acidity is quite fresh – it is a youthful and energetic wine – and there is an agility through the palate, with only a glimmer of tannin. A harmonic finish shows more spice and good length. 91pts
Stonecroft Zinfandel 2022
