1998:- An extremely good year in the Hawkes Bay with a long hot Indian Summer. We doubled production to take advantage of this once in a decade opportunity.

1999:- Ralph and Philipa finish the alterations to the house at Te Awanga creating a five bedroom homestay. Dad starts work on the straw bale winery in the vineyard at Te Awanga.

Jill and I buy a 10 acre property with house and excellent vineyard potential. Situated at Mere road, located across highway 50 from Gimblet road.

2000:- I join the the 20th century (late) and let my brother put together this website. Jill and I have been working on the Mere road vineyard. We have cleared the land and planted 5000 vines of, CabernetSauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Montepuiciano.

The reputation of the Gimblet road area has increased a lot this year with our neighbours taking out trophies in the Air New Zealand wine awards for their Red Wines. C J Pask also won the award for the best Bordeaux style red wine at the International Wine Challenge, the ultimate award.

2001:- Our Gimblett Gravels vineyard in Mere Road is now planted and growing apace. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec for Bordeaux style wines and a trial plantingMontepulciano done of the Tuscan Sangiovese are the red grapes which are establishing well on the stony terroir of the appellation. We will get our first sample this vintage.

The Levels vineyard is flourishing this year with exceptional spring bud burst prompted by Ralphs early pruning regime and near perfect spring conditions.

2002:- The arrival of a new press and exceptional vintage spurred on plans for the expansion this year of our unique, Tuscan style straw bale winery and picnic park with a croquet lawn for more active participation by wine tasters.


Yours Sincerely


Chris Harrison