In 1993, Terry Peabody and his wife, Mary, decided they wanted to create a family legacy that could be passed on to future generations. They decided to establish a wine estate somewhere in the world, their desire stemming from the family's love of fine wine. There was one stipulation: Terry didn't want to buy into an existing vineyard, but rather select bare-earth, untouched land to ensure quality from the outset.
Their search for a winery began, traditionally enough, in France and America, and then expanded to Australia. An opportunity then led Terry to the edge of the world—to New Zealand—a land of mountains, fire, and ice. Here, he saw potential he hadn't seen elsewhere: the country's exceptional climate, its rich agricultural history, and the pioneering spirit of its people.
The Chardonnay grapes come from the Kidnappers Vineyard, located on the coast of Hawke's Bay in Te Awange. Spring and autumn here are warm and sunny, and summer is tempered by cooling sea breezes. It's the ideal location for developing intense Chardonnay flavors. This ultimately results in a wine with enhanced aromas and a delicious finish.
The harvest is 60 percent manual, with a yield of 53 hl/ha. Vinification took place partially in stainless steel vats, the remainder in barriques, 10 percent of which were new. This was followed by nine months of aging. The wine has a pale gold color. Aromas of honey and fresh citrus, and a slightly minerally flavor with a hint of melon.
