VITICULTURE
Chardonnay from our historic Taradale vineyard and Gimblett Gravels
were hand-harvested for this wine. The Taradale vineyard has deep sandy-
silt loams, and Chardonnay is planted at two sites within the block. Part of
the block has a free-draining sandy phase with lower vine vigour.
Chardonnay from Taradale has more fruit on the citrus spectrum, and from
the gravels, more stone fruit. The summer and autumn were mild and dry
in Hawke’s Bay, allowing the fruit to accumulate sugars and develop
delicious ripe flavours. Most importantly, this warm autumn weather
allowed the fruit to develop ripe tannins in the skins and seeds,
contributing to the richness of flavour and soft texture.
WINEMAKING
The fruit was handpicked and pressed as a whole bunch. The must was
barrel fermented, and around a third of the barrels were new. A third of
the wine underwent malolactic fermentation, giving it a soft, buttery
character. Extended time on the lees for 18 months before racking also
contributed to excellent palate weight and depth of complexity.
Reaching New Zealand shores in 1838, pioneering French missionaries founded a legacy. From their many accomplishments, now interwoven throughout history, came New Zealand’s first winery, Mission, in 1851.
Their inspiration, a legacy we continue.
New Zealand Winegrowing
Central to the success of New Zealand as a world-renowned wine
growing region is the temperate maritime climate and the free-draining
alluvial soils. The growing season is long, providing perfect conditions for slow
ripening and full flavour development. Cool nights and warm days retain
fruit acidity which lends a freshness and vibrancy, highly characteristic
of New Zealand wine styles.
Sustainability Practices
Mission has strong sustainability credentials as a founding member of
Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand and holding ISO 14001
environmental certification since 1998.
With organics and organic conversions underway in some vineyards,
Mission has an ongoing commitment to sustainable viticulture and
winemaking practices. In 2007, the Mission winery underwent a multi-million dollar upgrade designed to maximise energy and water efficiencies.
Today, Mission is proud to produce some of New Zealand’s finest wines
in the most environmentally friendly manner.
