Wines Hawke's Bay Paritua - Willow - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Paritua's "Willow" Cuvée Blanc 2021 is an attractive white wine hailing from the renowned Hawke's Bay region of New Zealand. Crafted by Paritua Estate, this cuvée typically blends classic white grape varieties, possibly Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, or Semillon, which are emblematic for the area. The 2021 vintage benefited from a temperate growing season, with cool evenings and ample sunshine helping to preserve freshness, aromatics, and natural acidity. This cuvée reveals a bright, pale lemon color. On the nose, expect vibrant aromas of citrus blossom, stone fruit like white peach, grapefruit zest, and perhaps nuanced hints of flint or fresh-cut grass, depending on the precise proportion of each grape. The palate is lively and well-balanced, marked by juicy acidity, flavors of lime, pear, and gooseberry, and a lingering mineral-driven finish. The winemaking approach likely includes careful temperature control during fermentation and a short period on the lees, preserving primary fruit expression and adding a subtle texture to the mouthfeel.

Hawke's Bay is New Zealand's oldest wine region, situated on the east coast of the North Island. With a maritime climate featuring warm, sunny days and cooling Pacific breezes, the area encourages slow, even grape ripening. Soils range from gravel beds, prized for deep reds and structured whites, to river terraces rich in clay and loam, imparting complexity and character to the wines. Hawke’s Bay’s long viticultural history, dating back to the 1850s, has cemented its international reputation for expressive, food-friendly wines, especially Bordeaux blends, Chardonnay, and aromatic whites.

Willow Cuvée Blanc’s versatility makes it an appealing match for a variety of dishes. It pairs beautifully with fresh seafood—think local green-lipped mussels, oysters, or seared scallops—thanks to its zesty acidity. It also shines alongside goat cheese salads, grilled asparagus with lemon vinaigrette, or chicken with a light cream sauce. For a regional touch, serve it with New Zealand’s iconic whitebait fritters or herb-roasted lamb with spring vegetables.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine well-chilled, at 8-10°C. This temperature brings out its crisp aromatics and refreshing structure while ensuring the delicate fruit nuances and minerality remain at the forefront. If aging further, expect added complexity and a softer profile after a few years in your cellar.