Swift Wines has opened New Zealand’s newest cellar door in Fernhill, Hawke’s Bay.
The tasting room marks a significant expansion for owner Lauren Swift, who opened the doors during Labour Weekend.
Operating from 11am, six days a week through summer, Swift Wines’ cellar door features a pick-your-own-platter experience, where visitors can purchase cheeses, cured meats, olives and kid-friendly snacks from the fridge.
To taste, there are six of Swift Wines’ new generation styles, including Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay, Syrah and two sparklings named Marceline, and Pipi.
The latter, just released, is one of New Zealand’s very first sparkling Albarinos and pairs beautifully with seafood, showcasing lemon, minerality and floral characteristics.
“We only produced 1500 bottles and they’re flying out the door for summer,” says Lauren.
The winemaker, who runs her business alongside husband Henry Williams, was crowned the inaugural New Zealand Young Winemaker of the Year in 2015, using her prize money to invest into making Syrah that launched Swift Wines in 2018.
“I don’t follow any particular ‘recipe’ when creating my wines,” Lauren says. “I much prefer to use my intuition and take inspiration from what I’ve experienced while working and travelling the world.”
Sourcing some of her fruit from the Two Terraces vineyard and the bulk from Abbey Winery in Bridge Pa, Lauren says she enjoys partnering with smaller vineyards and forming lasting relationships with each one. She’s also committed to minimal intervention wherever possible.
“Our Chardonnay, for instance, is pressed straight to the barrel, and then each barrel is treated individually, throughout fermentation and aging until blending a year later.”
The cellar door charges an $18 tasting fee, refunded on the purchase of two bottles. Dogs are also welcome at the Swift Wines cellar door.
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Dining and Cooking