Hawke's Bay on New Zealand's North Island east coast is the country's warmest and sunniest wine region, making it NZ's home for the most full-bodied reds. The Gimblett Gravels — a unique warm, free-draining shingle bed — is New Zealand's most prestigious sub-region for Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The gravels' heat retention produces ripe, complex reds reminiscent of the Northern Rhône and Bordeaux. Chardonnay from cooler Bridge Pa Triangle is also world class.
| Year | Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | — | Gimblett Gravels conditions ideal; Merlot and Syrah showing depth and freshness. |
| 2023 | — | Exceptional year for Gimblett Gravels Syrah — some calling it the vintage of the decade. |
| 2022 | — | Warm conditions; generous Syrah and Merlot with opulent fruit and ripe tannins. |
| 2021 | — | One of the finest Hawke's Bay vintages in recent history for all varieties. |
| 2020 | — | Fine vintage; Chardonnay and Syrah both excellent across the region. |
| 2019 | — | Outstanding conditions; Merlot-based blends and Syrah achieving international recognition. |
| 2018 | — | A landmark Hawke's Bay vintage — Gimblett Gravels Syrah of extraordinary concentration. |