Unison Vineyard

Unison Vineyard is a family-owned winery and cellar door at 2163 State Highway 50, RD 5, Hastings 4175, in the heart of the Gimblett Gravels Wine Growing District of Hawke’s Bay. It’s 3.6 km from our base at Roys Hill, about a 14-minute ride, and it’s a stop on our Gimblett Gravels route. Every red and rosé Unison makes is grown, made and bottled right there on the property.

Why visit Unison on a bike tour?

Because it’s a small family winery with a good story under its feet. The Gimblett Gravels is the old bed of the Ngaruroro River. A flood in 1867 sent the river off on a new path and left behind dry, stony soil that holds the sun’s heat, which suits red grapes.
Unison’s founders had worked in Tuscany for years before coming to Hawke’s Bay. They went looking for “poor soil”, found it here, and were among the first to plant in what’s now the Gimblett Gravels. They planted European style: lots of vines in narrow rows, each one carrying only a little fruit. The winery is now in its second ownership and still family-owned.

What wines does Unison make?

Unison grows Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah on its home block. The white wines come from cooler sites around Hawke’s Bay, but they’re made and bottled at Unison too.
A few to look out for:

• Symphony Syrah, made from their oldest vines.
• Armonía Chardonnay, made by consultant winemaker Jenny Dobson. You might know it by its old name, Maestro Chardonnay. Only the name has changed.
• Riversong Red, a Portuguese-style fortified wine you can only buy at the cellar door.

Find a few you like and take them with you. We’ll carry your bottles home for you.

Can I get lunch at Unison?

Yes, on weekends. Unison’s restaurant, Tom Tom Tapas,* serves Mediterranean food in a courtyard set among olive trees and vines. It’s open Saturdays and Sundays,* and on Sundays there’s seafood paella.* If you’re riding on a Friday, plan on tastings rather than lunch, and check with Unison before you go.

Is there anything for non-wine drinkers or kids?

Yes. Unison has local craft beer and soft drinks, so the non-wine drinker in your group is sorted. Tom Tom Tapas also has a children’s menu.

Do I need to book for a group?

Any group of more than six needs to book ahead. That covers both tastings and lunch. You can contact Unison here.

How far is Unison from On Yer Bike?

3.6 km, about a 14-minute ride from our shop at Roys Hill.

*Subject to change. Opening hours change in November. Check with Unison before you ride.