2021 Church Road 1 Single Vineyard Redstone Merlot

Brand	Church Road
Region	Gimblett Gravels, Hawkes Bay
Varietal	Merlot
Size	750ml
Alcohol %	14.0%
Vintage	2021
Country	New Zealand

Church Road 1 Merlot 2021 is a true expression of place, capturing the essence of one of Church Road’s finest vineyard sites, Redstone in the Bridge Pa Triangle. Redstone is famed for its red, free-draining, low-vigour alluvial greywacke gravel bed, since covered by a shallow layer of wind-blown loess and iron rich volcanic ash that is responsible for the distinctive rust coloured staining of the stones. These tough conditions yield small crops of exceptionally concentrated, intensely flavoured fruit. Situated just 40 metres above sea level and sheltered from coastal breezes, the vineyard benefits from a consistently warm climate, ideal for crafting supple and fragrant red wines. The winemaking philosophy here is one of restraint, allowing the site’s natural strengths to take centre stage. Rather than imposing a heavy winemaking hand, the goal is to let the land speak through the wine. The result is a Merlot of purity and depth, a benchmark expression of both vintage and vineyard that showcases the remarkable potential of Redstone.

The nose is inviting with aromas of ripe black doris plum, complemented by subtle floral notes and a hint of cedar. These are interwoven with earthy undertones and a touch of graphite, adding depth and intrigue to the bouquet.

On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and structured, with concentrated flavors of dark plum and black cherry. The tannins are fine-grained and well-integrated, providing a smooth texture that supports the rich fruit profile. A lingering finish reveals nuances of dark chocolate and spice, underscoring the wine's complexity. Enjoy with red meats and hard cheeses. The recommended serving temperature is 16-18 degrees.