Wines Auckland Stonyridge - Luna Negra - 2020

Stonyridge’s Cuvée Luna Negra 2020 hails from the lush Auckland region in New Zealand, a winery known for its commitment to quality and expressive red wines. While the precise blend of this cuvée is not specified, Stonyridge is renowned for crafting complex, Bordeaux-inspired reds, often with a focus on Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and other classic varietals. Expect a wine with a deep ruby hue, offering aromas that might include ripe dark berries, subtle spice, and perhaps hints of cedar or graphite. The 2020 vintage, shaped by long sunny days and tempered by coastal breezes, should present balanced ripeness with refined tannins and a fresh acidity typical of well-made Auckland reds.

The Auckland wine region, resting at the northern tip of New Zealand’s North Island, benefits from a warm maritime climate, favouring slower, more even grape ripening. The soils in the area, often clay-based with volcanic influences, give depth and structure to the wines, allowing them to age gracefully. Auckland boasts some of the country’s oldest vineyards and a long tradition of innovative winemaking, often blending international viticultural techniques with a New Zealand sense of place.

This style of red is particularly well-suited to robust culinary partnerships. Consider pairing it with dishes such as roasted lamb with herb crust, slow-braised beef, or venison, whose savoury profiles will complement the richness and structure of the wine. Classic local options like New Zealand lamb rack or kumara mash would also be delightful, especially when accented with gentle spices or earthy mushroom sauces.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at a temperature of 16-18°C. Decanting prior to serving—especially for a youthful, concentrated vintage like 2020—will help open up the aromas and soften any youthful tannins. This bottle will benefit both from immediate appreciation and, for those with patience, a few additional years in the cellar.