As you ride around Hawke's Bay, an area well known for its wine making expertise, in your exploration of local wines you may wish to drop into a winery or two and participate in a local wine tasting. After all that is the main premise of what On Yer Bike Winery Tours is about!
Wine tasting is a sensory exploration that takes you on a different journey through the diverse landscapes of vineyards, the intricacies of winemaking, and the complexities of flavour. It does not matter if you are a seasoned connoisseur or a curious beginner, getting to know and understand the nuances of different wine varieties can enhance your appreciation and enjoyment.
In this tasting guide, we will explore six distinct local wines that are easily found around the Hawke's Bay wineries of the Bridge Pa Triangle and Gimblett Gravels Wine Districts: Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Rosé, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a dessert wine. We have presented them in an order that you may find in any wine tasting: White to red, light to heavy.
Pinot Gris: The Crisp and Refreshing
Pinot Gris, often known as Pinot Grigio in Italy, is a white wine that's perfect for those who appreciate a light, crisp, and refreshing drink. With flavours that range from green apple and pear to subtle hints of honey and citrus, Pinot Gris is a versatile wine. Its zesty acidity makes it an excellent pairing with seafood, light salads, or a leisurely afternoon by the beach.
Chardonnay: The Elegant and Full-Bodied
Chardonnay is one of the most popular white wines globally, known for its rich and full-bodied character. Depending on the region and winemaking style, Chardonnay can vary from buttery and oaky to bright and citrusy. The local style is bright stone fruit (peach, nectarine, apricot) with a hint of citrus (grapefruit, lemon). Barrel fermentation and lees ageing often add vanilla, creamy, nutty and toasty notes from the oak. These pair beautifully with creamy dishes like risotto or roasted chicken.
Rosé: The Versatile and Vibrant
Rosé is a wine that embodies the spirit of summer with its vibrant pink hue and refreshing taste. Made from red grape varieties with minimal skin contact, or a blend of red and white varietals, local rosé is typically dry, crisp and vibrant. It bursts with red fruit flavours like strawberry, raspberry and watermelon, often with floral notes, citrus hints and a refreshing mineral finish. It’s a versatile wine that pairs well with a wide range of dishes, from grilled vegetables to seafood, making it a delightful choice for casual gatherings.
Syrah: The Bold and Spicy
Syrah has become one of our flagship local wines, taking over from the Bordeaux-style blends of yesteryear. Syrah, also known as Shiraz in Australia, is a bold red wine that captivates with its deep, dark color and intense flavours. Often exhibiting notes of blackberry, plum, and pepper, Syrah is a wine with a robust character. Its tannins and complexity make it a perfect match for grilled meats, barbecue, and hearty stews, offering a satisfying experience for those who enjoy a powerful red wine.
Cabernet Sauvignon: The Classic and Structured
Cabernet Sauvignon is a classic red wine known for its structure, depth, and ageing potential. With flavours of blackcurrant, cedar, and a hint of green pepper, this wine is renowned for its firm tannins and long finish. It’s an excellent choice for pairing with red meats, particularly steak, as well as aged cheeses. Cabernet Sauvignon is often a favorite for those who appreciate a wine with a strong personality and the ability to develop complexity over time.
Dessert Wine: The Sweet Finale
To end the tasting journey, a dessert wine offers a sweet conclusion. Local wines in the dessert variety offer a variety of styles, from luscious Rieslings. with citrus and honey notes to rich, fortified red blends featuring dense berry and plum flavours.
Local dessert wines come in a variety of styles, from luscious Rieslings with citrus and honey notes to rich, fortified red blends with dense berry and plum flavours.
Late harvest whites (Riesling, Semillon, Gewürztraminer, Viognier) are affected by noble rot (botrytis) or picked very late to concentrate the sugars. They give aromas of apricot, peach, marmalade, honey and lime blossom. The palate is rich and luscious, with ripe citrus, stone fruit and pineapple, balanced by a clean seam of acidity that keeps them fresh.
Fortified red dessert wines are often made from Malbec, Syrah or a blend of red grapes, in a port-like style. Expect dark berries, plums and liquorice, with spice and hints of vanilla or burnt caramel.
Pair them with blue cheese, fruit tarts, or simply savour them on their own for a sweet, indulgent finish.
Conclusion on your local wines exploration.
Wine tasting is a celebration of diversity in flavour, aroma, and experience. From the crisp and refreshing notes of Pinot Gris to the sweet and indulgent tones of dessert wine, each glass tells a story of the land, the grape, and the hands that crafted it. As you explore these six wines, take the time to savour each sip, reflect on the flavours, and enjoy the journey through the world of local wines.
Come on a journey of your favourite wines with On Yer Bike Winery Tours. Select either the Bridge Pa Wineries Trail or Gimblett Gravels Ride. Try a regular bike or electric bike and discover your new favourite wines.