Church Road Grand Reserve Syrah

The Church Road Grand Reserve Syrah is a refined, full-bodied expression of Hawke’s Bay excellence, showcasing the region’s mastery of cool-climate Syrah. With its hallmark perfume of violets, cracked black pepper and warm exotic spice, this wine captures both the richness of the Gimblett Gravels and the elegance that defines Church Road’s Grand Reserve range. A beautifully balanced and age-worthy Syrah crafted with precision and grace.

Tasting Notes & Experience

Rich aromas of dark plum and blackberry mingle with violet, pepper, and toasted oak. The palate delivers ripe black fruits wrapped in gentle tannins, with fine acidity providing freshness and length. Full-bodied yet elegant, this Syrah flows effortlessly from savoury spice and floral lift to a smooth, enduring finish — both powerful and poised.

Key Details

• Winery: Church Road Winery
• Varietal: Syrah
• Region: Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand
• Vintage: 2022
• ABV: 13.5%
• Volume: 750ml
• Other: Sustainable Winegrowing

Craftsmanship & Story

Founded in 1897, Church Road is one of New Zealand’s most storied wineries, with over 125 years of winemaking heritage. The Grand Reserve Syrah blends fruit from three of the region’s finest parcels — Wai-iti, Gimblett and Redstone Vineyards — to create a wine of complexity and harmony. Under the direction of Chief Winemaker Chris Scott, traditional small-batch vinification, careful oak integration, and low-intervention practices yield a Syrah of texture, intensity and remarkable balance. Each vintage honours both the pioneering spirit of founder Tom McDonald and the enduring legacy of Hawke’s Bay terroir.

Special Features

This Grand Reserve Syrah epitomises Church Road’s philosophy of crafting wines that are generous yet finely structured. It showcases the elegance of cool-climate Syrah — fragrant, peppery, and beautifully textural — with subtle oak layering and graceful tannins. Recognised internationally for quality and sustainability, Church Road continues to set the benchmark for Hawke’s Bay Syrah.

Recognition & Accolades

Widely acclaimed across recent vintages for its elegance and depth:

• 4.5/5 Stars & Top 10 – Cuisine NZ Syrah Tasting (2022 vintage)
• Gold & 96/100 Points – New Zealand International Wine Show 2024 (2021 vintage)
• Gold – Decanter World Wine Awards 2024 (2021 vintage)
• Gold – Drinks Business Global Syrah Masters 2024 (2021 vintage)
• 95/100 Points – Cameron Douglas MS (2020 vintage)

Such accolades reaffirm Church Road’s position among New Zealand’s most respected producers of Syrah.

Food Pairings

Church Road Grand Reserve Syrah, with its dark berry fruit, exotic spice, and peppery lift, is superb alongside rich, savoury dishes. Its fine-grained tannins and balanced acidity complement slow-roasted lamb, venison, or pepper-crusted steak, while the wine’s smoky undertones harmonise beautifully with chargrilled meats or braised short ribs. The aromatic spice also enhances herb-driven cuisine such as rosemary-infused roast lamb or Moroccan tagine. For a refined finish, pair with aged hard cheeses like gouda or parmesan, where the savoury intensity and creamy texture contrast the wine’s vibrant fruit and spice.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

Church Road Grand Reserve Syrah is a timeless choice for wine lovers and collectors — luxurious, expressive and beautifully balanced. Ideal for gifting, cellaring or sharing over an elegant dinner.