Susan McCarthy and Neal Kunimura moved from Hawaii to Waiheke Island with only the passion and determination to grow and produce quality Red Bordeaux style and Syrah wines. Sauvignon Blanc grapes grown in Marlborough were added to their selection of fine wine in 2000. Kennedy Point Vineyard, named for the Kennedy family who settled this area of Waiheke in the late 1800's, and still have an ancestral home on the Island today, was established in 1996 and their first harvest was in 1999. They are now Certified Organic.
The vineyard is planted on 2.5 acres. The beautiful site on the southeastern side of Waiheke Island in the Hauraki Gulf provides a steep north-facing slope for optimum ripening of the grapes. Their philosophy of following natural viticulture methods allow them to work with premium quality grapes and use a little interventions as possible in the wine making process.
The wine produced on this property reflects the essence of the land, and supports our belief that great wine is grown in the vineyard. Organic viticulture aims to sustain and enhance the fertility and life-supporting ability of the soil by not using chemical fertilizers and sprays. The health of the land for the long range production of quality wine and olive oil is the goal of our organic process.
Kennedy Point is fully certified by Organic Farms N.Z. as of August 2010, an organic certification program designed for small producers; it follows the strict BioGro International Standards. It was established in response to the growing cost of organic certification and the global movement towards using locally produced organic products. Our wines are fermented with wild yeast which enhances the complexity and unique qualities of each wine, which reflects the terroir of the vineyard.
The wine is reminiscent of a northern Rhone wine that is fermented with 2% Viognier, which lifts the aromas of pepper, spice and dark fruit. This full-bodied wine finishes with fine tannins and structured spicy fruit. It should be aged for 3 to 8 years.
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Item Number | Unit | Units/Case | Type | UPC - bottle | SCC - case | SRP/Unit |
NZ0EE118012SYM | 750ml | 6 | Glass | 7 84585 00445 4 | 1 07 84585 00445 1 | $44.00 |
Their philosophy of following natural viticulture methods allow them to work with premium quality grapes and use a little interventions as possible in the wine making process. Wines are fermented with wild yeast which enhances the complexity and unique qualities of each wine, which reflects the terroir of the vineyard.
"Medium ruby-purple in color, the 2011 Syrah flaunts bright red and black fruit aromas that are dotted with notes of spice, pepper and a touch of lavender. Medium-bodied, it has lively acidity, a low-to-medium level of rounded tannins and a long finish. - LPB"
- Wine Advocate (Issue #209, October 2013), 92+ pts
"Deep garnet-purple, the 2010 Syrah displays notes of black fruits, plums and blackberries aside some anise and charcoal. Medium-bodied and framed by a medium level of rounded tannins, it has a vibrant acid line highlighting nice mid-palate fruit weight, then finishes long and peppery. Drink it now to 2018+. - LPB"
- Wine Advocate (Issue #209, October 2013), 92+ pts
"Composed of 98% Syrah and 2% Viognier and aged in French oak, 20% new, for 14 months, the 2010 Syrah displays a very deep garnet-purple color and aromas of warm blackberries, black plums and cassis with hints of anise, tar and dark chocolate with a whiff of pepper. Medium-full bodied and generously fruited in the mouth, it has a medium to firm level of rounded tannins, lively acidity and a long toasty finish with some cedar poking through. Approachable now, it should drink best 2012 to 2017+. "
- Wine Advocate (Issue #197, October 2011), 91 pts
Kennedy Point Syrah 2010 in glass, day 2. waiheke rocks! Such a lovely wine."
"@jamiegoode: Kennedy Point Syrah 2010