The Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction is many things: a celebration of the region’s outstanding wine industry, an elegant occasion for winemakers and wine connoisseurs, and a fun day out for hundreds of locals and visitors eager to sample the best wines in the country.
It’s also the largest annual private contributor to Cranford Hospice, holding a special place in Hawke’s Bay hearts. Last year’s auction raised over $300,000, and one of the 2024 lots is already expected to spark a bidding war.
For the first time, a private collection spanning an impressive 40 years of Te Mata Estate’s prestigious Coleraine will be offered at auction. This exceptional collection features a bottle from each feted vintage, from its first in 1982 to 2021 (with 1992, 1993, and 2012 being non-producing years). The 37-bottle lot, generously donated by local wine enthusiast Stuart Tustin, showcases four decades of arguably New Zealand’s most iconic red wine, presenting a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Having carefully cellared the collection since purchasing his first case of Coleraine in the 1980s, Stuart says it became clear he could “never break it up,” and decided to donate the bottles for good. “This feels like the perfect opportunity to find a new home for the collection, at a healthy price, and support a fantastic facility,” he says. “I hope we do it justice.”
MiNDFOOD’s Master Sommelier Cameron Douglas says “Named after the small town in Ireland Coleraine (coal-rain) has earned its place as one of the icons of Aotearoa New Zealand. Ageworthy, complex and detailed wines”
Extraordinary lots
Among the remaining 40 lots on offer this year, bidders may be tempted by the opportunity to purchase Syrah blended from the eight wineries in the Bridge Pa Triangle, expertly crafted by winemakers Barry Riwai and Jason Stent. The Barrique (300 bottles) of Bridge Pa Triangle Wine District Syrah 2024 En Primeur is highly scented, aromatic, and savory.
Another celebrated wine lot is the 2023 Church Road Chardonnay. Named Best in the World at this year’s International Wine Challenge, Church Road consistently produces incredibly high-quality Chardonnay. This exclusive lot, a unique blend of top Chardonnay parcels, offers 150 bottles (a half barrique) and stands out as another highlight.
Those looking for a tropical escape, original artwork, or an exclusive dining or tasting experience are also catered for. Lots include a seven-night Pacific travel package from House of Travel and Reef House, a one-off still life artwork courtesy of feature artist Helen Kerridge, a library tasting for 20 at Pask Winery, or dinner for 12 at Crab Farm.
The excitement is ‘palpable’
“It has to be noted that some of our 2024 lots are without doubt the most thrilling we’ve seen,” says Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction Chairman and former winemaker Peter Cowley. “We’ve been blown away by the quality of the lots so generously donated by winemakers and supporters, and the excitement that is building as we head into the auction is palpable.”
The first opportunity to sip and sample the wines on offer takes place on Wednesday, 14th August, at the Napier War Memorial Centre, with the auction itself, including a tasting prior to the gavel being lifted on the first lot, at Toitoi Hawke’s Bay Arts and Event Centre on Saturday, 14th September.
Event Ambassador and host Mike McRoberts will join the fun for the fifth year running. Travelling to Hawke’s Bay for the annual auction is a chance for the journalist and new National Business Review Te Ao Māori Editor to mingle with fellow wine lovers and enjoy the excitement of the experience.
The auction’s General Manager, Samantha Kershaw, notes that having Mike on board is also something to celebrate. “Mike has had a turbulent year with the closure of Newshub, but despite the upheaval, he’s remained absolutely committed to, and passionate about, his role as our Ambassador. We’re eternally grateful to him for putting in such an effort to support the Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction.”
And Samantha’s advice to anyone wanting to have a go at securing either the Coleraine vertical or one of the other fantastic lots? Recruit friends and family, build your auction syndicate, buy your tickets, and have a punt. “It’s all for the very best of causes – ensuring a sustainable future for our wonderful local hospice.”
To see all lots on offer at the Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction 2024, and purchase tickets for both the 14th August and the 14th September, go to hawkesbaywineauction.co.nz
