Supernatural Wine Co.

Just eight hectares of Sauvignon Blanc and a miniature vineyard of under a hectare of Pinot Gris – this is viticulturalist Hayden Penny’s demesne. The first tendrils were planted in 1989 on the Tuki Tuki Hills. In 2004, the Collinge family acquired the estate and planted new vines of Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris. The northward vineyards are situated on hillsides with an incline of up to 30%. The calciferous loamy soil with volcanic influences (Green Glow) and sandy loamy soil sitting on a sandstone base (The Supernatural) produce inimitable wines full of character. The climate resembles that of Bordeaux, though a bit cooler overall.

The vineyard boasts an organic certification since 2015. Further advances revolve around bio-dynamic cultivation. The wines are vinified with as little interference as possible, fermented with indigenous yeasts, are barely or not filtered at all, and bottled with minimal amounts of sulphur. Green Glow and Spook Light are fermented on skins and maintained in contact with the lees for a couple of weeks – not unlike red wines, which explains their intense colour. The Pinot Gris, especially, glows in a beautiful red-and-gold shade.

The unconventional closure makes for another eyecatcher, as it is rarely used for wines. Some wine experts regard the crown cork as the superlative wine closure. And should the lights go out, you will have no troubles finding a bottle of Green Glow: it glows in the dark – for any eventualities.

Hawke’s Bay, situated on New Zealand’s northern island, embodies a paradise for spoilt palates, wine aficionados, and friends of nature. The vineyard is set in Millar Road, a wonderful place to spend a few relaxing days. Guests to the villas can expect any luxury conceivable, tastefully furnished surroundings, and a sublime view past the vineyards out onto the unending Pacific Ocean.

www.millarroad.co.nz