This wine was harvested from 11 year-old Syrah vines which were planted in the commemorative Centennial Vineyard. They were planted when four generations of the Corban family gathered in Hawke’s Bay to mark the centenary of our forefather Assid Abraham Corban establishing his family winemaking enterprise in Henderson, Auckland, New Zealand in 1902.

The grapes were hand harvested, destemmed, cold soaked and then fermented warm before 12 month’s maturation in French oak barriques. With 7 years bottle maturation, this Syrah is drinking beautifully.

Wine reviews:

Cam Douglas – Master Sommelier

Outstanding 95+

“A very rare opportunity to taste this wine – The AC Centennial Syrah is a legacy wine that has come out of the three-day celebration held at Ngatarawa in 2002 to commemorate the centenary of Alwyn and family’s (great) great grandfather, Assid Abraham Corban, establishing himself in the New Zealand Wine Industry in 1902.

Very dark purple and ruby at the core, persistent to the rim where it changes to a ruby pink hue. A full and captivating bouquet with aromas of spices and dark berries, aged meats and clove, ligurian olive, boysenberry and raspberry, field mushroom and dried herb and a whisper of rosemary. Distinctive on the palate with equal power and energy from the fruit and structure. Tannins and acidity are still entwining through the core of dark berry flavours fruits. The spicy meat and mushroom, olive and savoury attributes are integrating well. So much of this wine is still primary showcasing potential still, ageing still underway and the amazing story that Hawkes Bay still has to tell. Lengthy finish, still ageing, a wine for the cellar, but approachable today with food and friends. Decant for service. Best drinking from 2026 through 2033 – 95 Points”

Sam Kim – Wine Orbit

5/5 STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“A stunning syrah; the inviting bouquet shows dark fruit richness together with seductive notes of game, cedar, cocoa and warm spice. The palate is concentrated and wonderfully rounded, delivering loads of delectable flavours and velvety texture, backed by supple tannins. This is magnificently maturing and offers terrific drinking. At its best: now to 2023 – 95 points”