The wines were a relatively straight forward part of the equation. HwCg have been working with Ironstone Vineyards for over 10 years and they have a strong understanding of the UK market. Ironstone have been very open to HwCg’s winemaking input over the last few vintages which has helped to create wines that are appropriate and relevant to the demanding UK market.

As part of the initial Californian category review, the HwCg winemaking team assembled the competitive set for tasting. Their aim was to insure that the wines that HwCg would be producing would stand out from the crowd, both in terms of quality and stylistically. With Ironstone and head winemaker, Dominic Hentall, briefed as to what the market required, Dominic went out in September 2005 to begin his selection for the first Honeywood vintage.

The style of the wines, as well as the grape varieties used, is Honeywood’s point of difference. The Californian category is dominated by Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. HwCg decided to focus on more unusual grape varieties, in terms of the Caifornian category, but ones which they knew had resonance with consumers. The Honeywood Sauvignon Blanc is perhaps the best example of this. It has been made in Dominic’s ultra reductive style, producing a stunning Sauvignon which has real varietal character, more in keeping with wines from cooler climates.