Stonyridge: top wines with a world-wide following

Stonyridge – The Magic of Waiheke Island in a Glass

Experience the passion and history of a winery that made history: from introducing the first Bordeaux grape varieties to New Zealand to creating internationally acclaimed red wines like Larose. Wines of world renown are crafted in the Mediterranean microclimate on Waiheke Island. Wines with depth, structure, and great aging potential.

A Vision That Became a Legend

Stephen White returned to New Zealand in 1981, inspired by the Mediterranean lifestyle and the great red wines of Europe. This passion led to the creation of Stonyridge on the sun-drenched Waiheke Island. As early as 1982, the first Bordeaux grape varieties and olive trees were planted, marking not only a pioneering project for Bordeaux blends in New Zealand but also the country's first commercial olive grove. Yoga enthusiast Stephen White practices his gentle way of life beyond yoga. The vineyard is also cultivated carefully and naturally. No pesticides have ever been used. The grapes are all harvested by hand.

"Top 10 Must Visit Wineries in the World" - UK Guardian
 

"There’s not really that many special places on the planet that can produce Cabernet to this quality … wines of true greatness … you’ve hit the jackpot!" - Robert Parker's - The Wine Advocate 2015
 

The International Breakthrough

The first vintage in 1985 was the prelude: with the legendary Larose 1987, Stonyridge achieved worldwide recognition just a few years later. Since then, the winery has been writing wine history: from the first New World Bordeaux blend featuring 5 grape varieties (1993) to international awards and top ratings – critics like James Suckling regularly award top scores (e.g., Larose 2019: 97 points).

Location, Climate, and Soils: Stonyridge's Natural Secrets

Nestled in a gently north-facing valley, Stonyridge lies on the same latitude as the southern tip of Sicily – an indication of the exceptionally warm, seemingly Mediterranean microclimate. Only one kilometre separates the winery from Onetangi Beach to the north and Putiki Bay to the south. The valley is protected by an elongated ridge that shields it from cool southwesterly winds, thereby creating ideal conditions for growing noble red wine varieties.

The nutrient-poor soil, characterized by Waitemata clay and permeated with magnesium, manganese, and iron oxide, offers exactly what great wines love: sparse conditions that help the vines achieve intense flavour concentration. Especially the natural magnesium content – essential for photosynthesis and often scarce in New Zealand soils – supports healthy and vigorous vine development.

In the vineyard, Stonyridge relies on gentle, sustainable care: instead of artificial fertilizers, only natural limestone and a homemade seaweed emulsion are used. This creates a harmonious interplay of climate, soil, and craftsmanship – the foundation for wines full of personality and depth.

Discover the Wines of Stonyridge

Stonyridge specializes in Cabernet Cuvées (Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot). These red wine varieties thrive particularly well on Waiheke Island because there is hardly any rainfall during the summer and daytime temperatures are very high. Crafted in a stunning natural environment, the red wines from this small winery compete with the great French ones.

Stonyridge Larose - The Flagship of Stonyridge

Larose is the epitome of the Stonyridge style: powerful, elegant, with ripe fruit and dense structure.

Stonyridge Airfield

The "little brother" of Larose. Elegant, fruity, and approachable – perfect for enjoyable evenings with friends.