A salute to Hawke’s Bay pioneer, Tom McDonald, Church Road TOM wines capture the passion for a craft that has been respected and refined for 125 years.

The wines are testament to Church’s Road’s restless ambition for ultimate quality and no effort is spared at each step in the winemaking journey. From the careful management of the vineyards in the Tuki Tuki Valley, Gimblett Gravels and Bridge Pa Triangle, to the masterful winemaking under Chris Scott, Church Road TOM wines are the culmination of the collection experience and understanding of the team, past and present.

Syrah was the star variety of the 2019 vintage, and this year’s TOM is a dense yet fragrant wine with a core of plum, cherry, and rich berry fruits leading into an underlying dark, brooding inky depth. Aromatic top notes add a counterpoint to this, delivering classic Hawke’s Bay Syrah perfume suggestive of violets and warm spice, with a hint of thyme. Subtle oak brings complexity and texture, imparting notes of vanilla, roasted cacao, and a hint of smoky charcuterie. On the palate the wine is full and supple with an exceptionally fine-textured, silky tannin structure and gentle, balanced acidity bringing length and freshness. While approachable now, good Hawke’s Bay Syrah will age gracefully for 20 years or more.