Wines Auckland Stonyridge - 2020 - 2020

Stonyridge’s Cuvée 2020 from Auckland, New Zealand, is a red wine that embraces the premium, modern approach so characteristic of this celebrated producer. While the exact blend is not detailed, Stonyridge is renowned for its Bordeaux-inspired, multi-varietal reds, often using Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and occasionally other classic Bordelais grapes. The 2020 vintage in Auckland benefited from a notably warm and stable growing season, allowing for excellent ripeness and concentration. Expect a refined and layered style with plush dark fruits, hints of spice, subtle herbal notes, and well-integrated oak. The wine is likely to offer a supple texture with polished tannins, poised for both early enjoyment and a few years of further cellaring. Vinification at Stonyridge combines attentive vineyard work with gentle handling in the cellar, aiming for elegance and purity over excessive extraction.

Auckland’s viticultural pedigree is among New Zealand’s oldest, with some vineyards dating back to the 19th century. The region enjoys a warm, maritime climate, underpinned by cooling sea breezes from both the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean, contributing to a long and balanced ripening period. Soils can vary but are often clay-rich, helping to impart structure and depth to the wines. This geography, coupled with thoughtful viticulture, means Auckland reds can display both vibrant fruit and a subtle savoury character. Historically, the area has been shaped by migrant winemaking families, giving rise to a tradition of quality-focused wine production with a European sensibility.

For food pairings, this style of wine is deeply versatile. It would complement slow-cooked lamb with Mediterranean herbs or a classic roast beef with Yorkshire pudding. Vegetarian options like mushroom Wellington or lentil moussaka would also highlight the wine’s subtle earthiness. Regionally inspired dishes, such as New Zealand venison with berry compote or a rich lamb shank pie, would be excellent matches, reflecting both the wine’s structure and aromatic profile.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at around 16-18°C. Decanting for about an hour would allow its aromas and flavours to fully unfurl. If cellaring, the Cuvée 2020 has the potential to further evolve over the next five to seven years.