Unison Vineyard

A Boutique Estate in the Heart of Gimblett Gravels

Nestled in the renowned Gimblett Gravels Wine Growing District of Hawke’s Bay, Unison Vineyard stands as a testament to the region’s rich winemaking heritage. Established in 1993, this boutique family-owned estate has garnered international acclaim for producing ultra-premium red wines that reflect the unique terroir of the area.

A Visionary Beginning

Unison Vineyard’s journey began with a bold vision: to cultivate low-yield, handcrafted wines that rivalled the finest European producers. The founders, recognising the potential of the Gimblett Gravels’ stony soils, planted densely spaced vines in narrow rows—a technique inspired by traditional European methods. This approach ensured that each vine received minimal fruit, concentrating the flavours and enhancing the quality of the wine. Today, under the stewardship of Philip and Terry Horn, Unison continues to uphold this philosophy, producing wines that embody elegance and finesse.
The Gimblett Gravels is a unique subregion within Hawke’s Bay, characterised by its free-draining, gravelly soils. These conditions are ideal for growing red varietals, as they stress the vines, leading to concentrated flavours and complex aromas. Unison’s estate spans approximately 6 hectares, with vines primarily planted to Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah. The vineyard’s proximity to the Omahu Gravels provides a distinctive terroir that imparts a signature minerality to the wines.
Unison’s commitment to quality is evident in its sustainable vineyard practices. The estate employs minimal intervention techniques, allowing the natural environment to shape the character of the wines. This philosophy extends to the winemaking process, where the focus is on gentle handling and careful maturation to preserve the integrity of the fruit.
At Unison, winemaking is approached with a philosophy of restraint and respect for the fruit. The team, led by winemaker Jenny Dobson, guides the wine gently through all stages of development, placing great importance on wood treatment. The goal is not to produce wines that are “fruit-driven” or “oaky,” but rather those that exhibit great overall balance, good concentration, and a silky tannin structure with a fine, lingering finish. This approach has resulted in wines that are both expressive and age-worthy.

The Wines

Unison Vineyard produces a range of red wines that showcase the estate’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship:

• Unison Selection Red: A blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah, this wine offers a harmonious balance of fruit and structure, with notes of dark berries and subtle oak nuances.
• Symphony Syrah: A single varietal wine that highlights the expressive nature of Syrah from the Gimblett Gravels, featuring aromas of black pepper, plum, and a touch of spice.
• Excalibur Merlot-Cabernet Sauvignon-Syrah: A bold and structured wine that combines the richness of Merlot with the depth of Cabernet Sauvignon and the spice of Syrah.
• Maestro Chardonnay: Sourced from cooler sites within Hawke’s Bay, this Chardonnay exhibits bright acidity and citrus notes, balanced by subtle oak influences.
• Alluvius Rosé: A dry rosé made by bleeding juice from top red Merlot grapes, offering fresh berry flavours and a crisp finish.

These wines are crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail, reflecting the unique characteristics of the Gimblett Gravels terroir.

Accolades and Recognition

Unison Vineyard’s dedication to quality has not gone unnoticed. The estate has received international recognition, including being named by Jancis Robinson in her Concise Wine Companion as one of 28 up-and-coming producers worldwide. This accolade highlights Unison’s position among the red wine elite of New Zealand and underscores its commitment to producing wines of exceptional quality.

Cellar Door Experience

Unison Vineyard offers a welcoming cellar door experience where visitors can taste the estate’s wines and learn about the winemaking process. The knowledgeable staff provide insights into the vineyard’s history and philosophy, enhancing the tasting experience. The cellar door is open to the public, and appointments are recommended to ensure a personalised visit.
For those exploring the Hawke’s Bay wine region, Unison Vineyard offers a unique and intimate experience. Located just outside Hastings, the estate is easily accessible and provides a serene setting to enjoy world-class wines. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a casual visitor, Unison’s combination of exceptional wines, knowledgeable staff, and picturesque surroundings make it a must-visit destination.