Bilancia (Libra in Italian, pronounced be-larn-cha) is a small Hawkes Bay producer of exceptional Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Viognier, Pinot Noir and Syrah. Bilancia was established in 1997 when Warren Gibson and his Partner Lorraine Leheny returned to New Zealand after some time spent making wine overseas. Warren Gibson, with Lorraine Leheny, own and make the wines. The name Bilancia (Libra in Italian) came to winemaker Warren Gibson whilst reading his horoscope during a harvest in Italy, and his winemaking philosophy centres on balance, equilibrium and harmony.

A delicious, medium bodied chardonnay with aromas of juicy stonefruit and citrus. Wild fermentation in barrel brings classic toasty characters with some mineral and flint complexity. A truly elegant and refined chardonnay.

"Very cool, quiet aromas of orchid, white pepper, lemon rind and wet clay are teased from the bouquet with some coaxing. The palate is linear, driven by an tight spine of acidity wrapped in young coconut as it streaks in shades of pale towards the powder-dry finish of oyster-shell and faint jasmine. In a rather austere state currently, this is a very elegant and poised chardonnay which is uncompromisingly restrained and lean." - Stephen Wong MW