Smith & Sheth Cru Heretaunga Albarino 2025

Smith & Sheth Cru Heretaunga Albarino is a generous, finely cut Hawke's Bay Albariño, bringing ripe golden peach and nectarine together with citrus, floral notes and a distinctly saline, steely finish. Barrel and lees ageing add texture and subtle richness, while bright acidity keeps the wine fresh and energetic. Fruit from Bridge Pa and Mangatahi gives this a broad Heretaunga expression with plenty of savoury interest alongside the ripe fruit. It is a smart choice for anyone who enjoys textured whites with real refreshment, particularly alongside oysters, grilled prawns or fresh seafood.

What the winery says:

The 2025 wine combines Albariño from the Fratelli vineyard in Bridge Pa and the Two Terraces vineyard in Mangatahi. The fruit was hand harvested and whole bunch pressed, with fermentation split between tank and French oak barrels. A portion underwent indigenous fermentation and malolactic fermentation, followed by 11 months of maturation in barrel on lees before blending. The finished wine combines ripe stone fruit and citrus character with added texture, freshness and savoury complexity.

What the experts say:

Cameron Douglas MS, 94 Points, Excellent (2025)
"A great bouquet filled with scents of the seaside and ripe peaches laced with citrus and and sandy soil ideas."