To celebrate the 40th release of Coleraine, we’re sharing stories and recollections behind this iconic New Zealand wine.
Originally released in 1982 as a single-vineyard wine, Coleraine was a bold statement of intent – an expression of what New Zealand red wine could become.
A gold-medal winner on its first release, it set a new benchmark for complexity, structure, and longevity, bringing together precision, blending artistry, and true cellar-worthiness.
Its reputation has been built not only on longevity in the cellar, but on sustained critical acclaim and international recognition, with top scores, trophies, and inclusion among the world’s most collectable wines. Revered by critics, collectors, and peers alike, it has achieved a rare status: both a national icon and a global benchmark.
Forty vintages on, Coleraine stands as a testament to vision, patience, and the quiet authority of a wine that has never needed to announce its greatness – only to prove it year after year, again and again, in the glass.
New Zealand’s most prestigious wine … nobody dreamed such a wine could be made from New Zealand grapes. Bob Campbell MW
Consistency of quality and style … have been the hallmarks since day one. Jancisrobinson.com
The beating heart of Hawke's Bay in vinous form. Matthew Jukes
The original intention may have been to mirror the top Cru-classé, but today Coleraine has evolved its own style. Andy Howard MW
Head Chef
Josh Emmet
Josh Emett is a leading New Zealand chef and restaurateur, internationally shaped by his time with Gordon Ramsay, who has helped define modern Kiwi fine dining through restaurants like Rātā and Onslow.
Closely aligned with the wine world, he contributes to the art of wine by crafting menus that foreground regional produce and create expressive pairings, elevating New Zealand wine as part of a complete cultural and sensory experience.
Josh share his personal experience of Coleraine over decades working with fine food, fine wine, and world class hospitality.
#colerainestories
Wine Ambassador
Mike McRoberts
Mike McRoberts (Ngāti Kahungunu) is one of New Zealand’s most respected broadcasters, best known for decades anchoring national news, who has also become a visible cultural figure in Hawke’s Bay wine through his role as an ambassador for the region’s flagship wine auction.
While not a winemaker himself, he contributes to the art and storytelling of wine by using his public voice, local roots, and collaborations to elevate Hawke’s Bay’s identity and narrative.
#colerainestories
