Bilancia vineyard sits on top of the most prominent hill overlooking the Gimblett Gravels of Hawkes Bay.  It is owned and run by the winemaking duo of Lorraine Leheny and Warren Gibson.  This family winery focuses on Syrah, Viognier and Pinot Gris.  The Syrah and Viognier are grown organically on 15 acres of the mainly steep terraced slopes known as the “La Collina” vineyard, and produce low yielding intense fruit/wines.   Lorraine and Warren are both classically trained winemakers and met in the wine industry while working for other wineries.  The attention to detail is very noticeable in all the wines they produce.  You can tell that every aspect of the wines has been scrutinized, not that they are “over-made” just that the expression is deliberate.  Sumptuous Viognier, elegant Pinot Gris and the spicy Shiraz are all truly excellent.  They definitely give the Northern Rhone valley a run for their money.  

Wines from this Winery:

Syrah 2008

 

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Syrah 2008

This is what Gimblett Gravels Syrah is all about!  Lots of cool climate spicy aromatics with excellent structure.  The nose is a high intensity mix of white pepper, flint, dried herbs (rosemary and sage) and black fruits (blackberry and black cherry).  The palate is balanced and full bodied with overtones of truffles and dusty oak.  The wine finishes surprisingly soft with velvety tannins and good length.  Excellent. Drink now to 10 years. 5 Stars.