Bilancia is a small Hawke's Bay producer of exceptional Chardonnay, Viognier/Marsanne/Roussanne and Syrah. It is the label of winemakers Lorraine Leheny and Warren Gibson and was established in 1997 when Lorraine and Warren returned to New Zealand from winemaking overseas. The first wines were released in mid 1998 and the first la collina Syrah in 2002

A single vineyard Chardonnay from Kaikora vineyard in Ōtāne. Kaikora is the original name for the town of Ōtāne in Central Hawke’s Bay. The name was changed to avoid confusion with Kaikōura in the South Island. Kaikora Chardonnay is a part of Bilancia’s project to highlight some of the most unique, small, single vineyards in Hawke’s Bay. 

A bit of struck match, lemon oil, nectarine, spice. Tight and flinty, intense core of acidity, runs from front to back with such power. Grapefruit zesty. So lively. Superb. Tasted: Jun 2024; Alcohol: 13%; Price: $56; Closure: Screwcap; Rated: 96 Points; Gary Walsh; The Wine Front