In the heart of the Gimblett Gravels lies Element Vineyard, a small but mighty site that proves size is no measure of significance.
At just 2.4 hectares, it is one of the smallest vineyards in this prestigious winegrowing district, yet it produces fruit of remarkable depth and energy. It is the home of our Blank Canvas Element Vineyard Gimblett Gravels Syrah, a wine that captures the cool climate energy, textural depth and elegance of this singular terroir.
Key Facts
Subregion:Â Gimblett Gravels
Region:Â Hawkes Bay
Grows:Â Syrah
Clone: MS Stonecroft and Chave
Rainfall: 429mm / annum
Mean Annual GDD: 1269

Soils: Free-draining alluvial gravels layered with sand, silt and clay
Elevation (m): 0-50 m 

Hectares: 1.0 ha
Growers: Dominic and Rachelle Smith
Viticulturist: Dominic Smith
Soil & Climate
The Gimblett Gravels Winegrowing District is renowned for and defined by its ancient riverbed soils. Pure gravel is layered with lenses of sand, silt, and clay. These free-draining alluvial gravels absorb and radiate heat, creating the perfect conditions for ripening Syrah in a cool-climate style.
The result is fruit with vibrant aromatics, fine tannins, and a mineral backbone. It is a style that speaks more of elegance than power, and of place more than polish.
Grower Philosophy
Of the 2.4 hectares planted, just 1 hectare is dedicated to Syrah, with a focus on the Chave clone, alongside mass selection from the historic Stonecroft clone. Rachelle and Dom also grow small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Viognier for their own wines.
Their philosophy is rooted in balance between art and science, instinct and knowledge. They believe that when the elements of the land are in harmony, the fruit will follow. No herbicides or systemic controls are used, and every decision is made with the health of the vineyard and its ecosystem in mind.
For the Smith family, winegrowing is a labour of love, a leap of faith, and a daily act of stewardship. Element is their expression and we’re proud to share in its story.
