Wines Hawke's Bay Villa Maria - Single Vineyard Braided Gravels - 2019

Villa Maria’s Single Vineyard Braided Gravels 2019 from Hawke’s Bay is a fine example of contemporary New Zealand white winemaking. While the precise varietal blend isn’t specified, Hawke’s Bay is celebrated for both Chardonnay and aromatic whites such as Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon or even Viognier – this cuvée may well reflect one or more of these varieties. The “Braided Gravels” name references the vineyard’s free-draining soils composed of stones and gravels left by ancient rivers, which tend to produce wines of notable concentration and elegance. The 2019 vintage in Hawke’s Bay offered a harmonious growing season, with warm, settled weather allowing for optimal ripening and balance.

Hawke’s Bay, located on the eastern coast of New Zealand’s North Island, is one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious wine regions. Its temperate climate combines sunshine, maritime influences, and cooling breezes, proving ideal for nuanced, food-friendly whites. The gravelly soils of the Heretaunga Plains, home to many top single vineyards, are renowned for fostering mineral-driven wines with freshness, structure, and complexity. Villa Maria is a pioneering estate, long respected for their commitment to quality and sustainable viticulture.

Given the likely style – a dry, well-structured white with vibrant acidity and subtle oak influence if Chardonnay dominates, or lifted aromatics with citrus and stone fruit if based on Sauvignon or other grapes – consider matching this wine with similarly elegant dishes. Creamy seafood preparations, such as green-lipped mussels in white wine or classic fish pie, would be delightful, as would grilled chicken with fresh herbs or Hawke’s Bay-grown asparagus in the spring. The wine’s freshness would also make a refined pairing with goat’s cheese or a citrus-dressed salad.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine chilled but not too cold, ideally between 10-12°C. This will allow its aromatic profile and textural finesse to unfold beautifully in the glass, enhancing the overall experience of this New Zealand classic.