One of Hawke’s Bay’s most respected winemaking names has found a permanent home, with the Radburnd Family purchasing the historic Stonecroft Winery on the Gimblett Gravels from Fistonich Family Vineyards.
For Kate and her family, the purchase has particular significance. Kate has spent nearly 45 years making wine in Hawke’s Bay, much of that time working with fruit grown on the Gimblett Gravels. Her husband Simon also has a long connection to the area, having spent many years establishing and managing the neighbouring Craggy Range vineyard.
“To have our permanent home here feels incredibly special” says Kate. “I have known Dr Alan Limmer for over 40 years, the founder of Stonecroft winery. This winery is rich in history, Radburnd Cellars will be proud to carry that legacy forward, based on common founding principles, small batches of exceptional wine , based on what we believe Hawke’s Bay grows best.”
The purchase marks the fourth site from which the winery has operated, since its inception in 2017, including the loss of Radburnd Cellar’s original winery during Cyclone Gabrielle.
Kate’s daughter Penelope, who works alongside Kate in the winery and business, is extremely excited. “We take exceptional parcels of Hawkes Bay fruit and craft them with the time and attention they deserve. To be able to do that now from a place with such heritage feels so right. We can’t wait to share it with our customers and visitors” she says
Radburnd Cellars will officially open its Gimblett Gravels site on a date to be announced.
Extra Note: The sale relates to the Mere Road Winery and Vineyard property and does not include the Stonecroft wine brand. Stonecroft Wines remains owned by Fistonich Family Vineyards and continues to be made by the Fistonich family at their historic 1930’s Bayview winery in Hawke’s Bay.
