From the rugged scalloped edges of vertical white cliffs to the beautiful hill country beyond, that give way to fertile Heretauuga Plains, where most of the vines are planted, Hawke's Bay is a vibrantly rich region. The country's second largest wine region, Hawke's Bay with its moderate climate of high sunshine-low rainfall is ideal for grape growing, has built an enviable reputation as the foremost wine growing district in the country for wine of exceptional quality. With soil variations of deep shingle to fertile alluvial ground, where inland to Gimblett Road the soil is warm/free draining and low in fertility. Chardonnay is the largest grape variety with Merlot, cabernet and sauvignon still contributing substantially to rising stars Syrah, Pinot Gris and Malbec that thrive in the regions lengthy sunshine.