In what ended up being a quite memorable night for Čuvar Winery, the Guardians Chardonnay 2021 took home three coveted trophies at the Bayley’s Hawke’s Bay Wine Awards – winning Best Chardonnay, Best Single Vineyard Wine, and the ultimate title, Champion Wine of the Show.
Made from Clone 15 Chardonnay grown on the Rivermere Vineyard along the Ngaruroro River, it captures the essence of Hawke’s Bay’s outstanding 2021 vintage. My review of the wine on release is linked below… but I have tasted the wine again since, and I do now rate it a couple of points higher at least.
Čuvar Winery is the vision of one of the absolute legends of New Zealand wine – Sir George Fistonich, founder of Villa Maria. Fistonich Family Vineyards carries on Sir George’s aim to create benchmark New Zealand wines from exceptional vineyards, and build world-class brands . Within the portfolio is Čuvar Winery, Obliix Wines and Stonecroft.
“My father and I are so proud to celebrate such early success with our new family winery. This award-winning wine is an early indication of more fine chardonnays to come”, says Karen Fistonich, Čuvar Winery, Executive Director.
