Stonyridge Pilgrim Syrah 2020
Pilgrim was New Zealand’s first wine ever made with the classic ‘GSM’ Rhône blend (Grenache, Mourvedre, Syrah). Aromas of black plum and blueberry with hints of violets and spice. Ripe tannins well-balanced by a soft acidity and a long finish.
The fruit was hand-harvested from the Estate’s sheltered, north-facing vineyard on Waiheke Island. The soils are low-fertility Waitemata clay, rich in iron, manganese, and magnesium oxides, promoting slow, balanced vine growth and small berry size. The final blend consisted of 96% Syrah, 2% Mourvèdre: 1% Grenache, 1%, Viognier. Each grape variety underwent separate fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks. Post-fermentation, the wine was aged in French oak barrels, which imparted subtle notes of cinnamon and contributed to the wine's complexity and structure.