2013 Hawke's Bay vintage hailed a legend

Excitement is growing in Hawke's Bay on the east coast of New Zealand's north island, as the 2013 vintage is being lauded by many as the stuff legends are made of. There is particular excitement around sub-region Gimblett Gravels. Chief winemaker at Sacred Hill said the quality of the fruit is terrific. the best in 32 years and a great year for Merlot.

Chief winemaker at Craggy Range, Matt Stafford, said the perfect weather meant he only found ten berries affected by botrytis, which is 'unheard of'. He declared 2013 'the best ever for Merlot', adding that it also provided top Chardonnay fruit, although he said 2009 remains the benchmark for Cabernet Sauvignon.

John Hancock, of Trinity Hill, said he's still waiting to see if 2013 can top 2009 for reds, the region's staples, but 2013 is undoubtedly a great year.