Church Road 1 Merlot

Rich, expressive and deeply structured, Church Road 1 Merlot is a masterful single-vineyard expression from the acclaimed Redstone Vineyard in Hawke’s Bay’s Bridge Pa Triangle. Crafted with precision and care, it captures the character of one of New Zealand’s finest Merlot terroirs.

Tasting Notes & Experience

A fragrant, complex Merlot with brooding dark plum and black cherry layered with cedar, rose, lavender and thyme. Undertones of cacao, warm earth and graphite lend savoury depth. Supple and full across the mid-palate, finishing long and elegant with fine-grained tannins and poised structure.

Key Details

• Winery: Church Road
• Grape: Merlot
• Region: Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand
• Vintage: 2021
• Alcohol: 13.5%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Other: Single Vineyard – Redstone Vineyard, Bridge Pa Triangle

Craftsmanship & Story

The Church Road 1 Collection honours the individuality of Hawke’s Bay’s finest vineyards. This Merlot is sourced exclusively from Redstone Vineyard, one of the region’s warmest and most expressive sites. Hand-harvested fruit, small-batch fermentation and gentle oak maturation create a wine that combines intensity with refinement — a reflection of Church Road’s deep winemaking heritage and modern precision.

Special Features

This wine showcases the pure power of Bridge Pa Triangle terroir. Iron-rich red soils, warm days and cooling nights yield Merlot of remarkable aromatic lift and minerality. Aged in fine French oak, it offers cellaring potential of over 15 years — a benchmark for premium New Zealand Merlot.

Recognition & Accolades

Internationally awarded and critically acclaimed, Church Road 1 Merlot demonstrates Hawke’s Bay’s world-class capability for Bordeaux-style reds.

• Trophy (International Merlot) – 2025 International Wine Challenge (2021 vintage)
• Trophy (NZ Merlot) – 2025 International Wine Challenge (2021 vintage)
• Trophy – Champion NZ Bordeaux Blend – 2023 (2021 vintage)
• 97/100 Points – Sam Kim, Wine Orbit (2021 vintage)
• Gold & 96/100 Points – NZ International Wine Show (2021 vintage)
• 95/100 Points & 5 Stars – Bob Campbell MW, The Real Review (2021 vintage)
• 94/100 Points – Cameron Douglas MS (2021 vintage)

Such accolades affirm Church Road’s mastery in crafting Merlot of depth, balance and international acclaim.

Food Pairings

Rich and elegant, this Merlot pairs beautifully with slow-braised venison, herb-crusted lamb or roasted duck. Its dark fruit and cacao notes complement earthy mushroom or truffle-based dishes, while the fine tannins and cedar spice elevate blue cheeses and charcuterie. A truly sophisticated companion for refined dining or contemplative sipping.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

A single-vineyard masterpiece from one of New Zealand’s most storied wineries, Church Road 1 Merlot embodies craftsmanship, heritage and modern excellence — perfect for collectors and discerning wine lovers.