Pick of the Bunch
Queens Wineshop’s Monthly Wine Recommendation
Pick of the Bunch is our monthly series with Queens Wineshop, where John shares one standout bottle he thinks is worth getting your hands on. Expect a quick hit of wine insight, a great recommendation, and a little added incentive: head into Queens Wineshop to pick up this month’s Pick of the Bunch and receive 15% off the bottle price.
This Month's Pick:
For this month's edition, John has selected a bottle with plenty of history behind it. Stonecroft played a pioneering role in establishing Gimblett Gravels as a wine region, and its Crofters Syrah is a beautifully balanced expression of the variety the winery knows so well.
Stonecroft 'Crofters' Syrah 2024
New Zealand wine owes much to Stonecroft and its founders. Established in 1982 by Dr Alan and Glennice Limmer, they were among the first to recognise the region now known as Gimlett Gravels as a viable viticulture site. They also have New Zealand's oldest producing Syrah vines, planted in 1984. So as a winery, they know a thing or two about this heralded variety. Now with the Fistonich family at the helm and Dave Macintosh as winemaker, it is safe to say, this legacy will continue to thrive.
A 'Crofter' is a person who occupies and works a small plot of land. The Crofters Syrah is a blend from several different sites, featuring varied vine ages and clones, which creates a superb wine with a deep ruby color and garnet edges. An inviting bouquet of ripe dark cherry, Doris plum, and raspberry leads, layered with subtle, complexing notes of leather, spice, and black pepper. Silky tannins and concentrated fruit are balanced by vibrant acidity.
With the air thick with chill, this bottle will provide you with all the warmth you need to get through the next month!
~ John Robertson
