2010 Stonyridge LaRose

Stonyridge ‘Larose’ 2010
Grape Varietals: 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Petit Verdot,
17% Malbec, 8% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc
& 1% Carmenère
Growing Region: Waiheke Island - New Zealand
Owner / Winemaker: Stephen White
Head Winemaker*: Martin Pickering *(joined the team in 2011)
Since the first vines were planted at Stonyridge in 1982 - every decision made has
been with the sole intention of crafting a world-class wine from the famous Bordeaux
red grapes. This classic Cabernet-dominant blend is named ‘Larose’ as a tribute to
the rose, which can be found at the end of several rows near the winery.
The vineyard aspect has a gentle north-facing slope, with the vines being sheltered
from cold southwesterly winds by the ridge which gives the vineyard its name.
Combined with these ideal conditions and excellent ‘organic’ viticulture, the grapes
have achieved perfect ripeness.
Yields at Stonyridge can be as low as 2 tonnes per acre, with the grapes being hand-
picked and immediately taken a short distance to the winery. Fermentation was
followed by a 2-week maceration period before being basket-pressed, with
malolactic fermentation being completed in barrel. The wine was aged 12 months in
100% French barrels, 60% new oak and the rest 1 year old, racked regularly, rarely
fined and never filtered. Larose is blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Petit
Verdot, 17% Malbec, 8% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 1% Carmenère.
A deep garnet-purple colour fills the glass; the nose displays pronounced notes of
warm black forest berries, black cherry jam, cassis, spice, cedar, mocha and cigar
box. Though full bodied, currently it is still tightly knit in the mouth; it has a solid
structure and firm, fine-grained tannins supporting the intense fruit. The secondary
spice characters of clove and thyme are layered with leather and a hint of freshly
roasted dark coffee. The oak is integrated, balanced and supports the fruit skillfully.
The persistence on the palate is impressive and goes on forever.
The 'Larose' 2010 is an absolute powerhouse, which while impressive at this early
stage, will only get better over the coming years. Decant carefully for 60-75 minutes.
Treat yourself - this wine is worth sharing.
This 2010 Stonyridge 'Larose' has 14% Alc./vol. Respectful decanting required and
serve in an appropriate red wine glass at 17°- 18°C.
Cellaring Potential:
Drinking this season with decanting, though would appreciate another 8 - 10 years.
Plus, will age well for another 15+ years. *(Reviewed: 10/6/2013)
Food Pairing Suggestions:
Perfect wine pairing with a prime aged sirloin, venison, ostrich with a seasoning rub
or a slowly reduced wine jus and served with earthy vegetables - enjoy.