Tony Bish Skeetfield Chardonnay

Tony Bish Wines is Australasia's only dedicated Chardonnay specialist, showcasing an unwavering commitment to crafting exceptional wines that reflect both innovation and tradition. Founded by Tony Bish, a pioneering winemaker with over 40 years of experience, the winery has garnered a reputation for producing world-class Chardonnays that capture the unique terroir of Hawke's Bay, New Zealand. Our portfolio of Chardonnays is a testament to meticulous winemaking and a deep love for this versatile varietal. Each wine is crafted with precision, utilizing innovative techniques and sustainable practices to ensure the highest quality. 

Tony Bish Wines is proudly family-owned and operated. Founded just over a decade ago by Tony Bish and his late wife, Karryn, the winery has recently welcomed Tony’s eldest son, Oscar, and youngest daughter, Genevieve, into the business, ensuring that the legacy of Tony Bish Wines remains firmly rooted in family.

Tony began his wine journey in the early 1980s. Cash-strapped yet eager to fund a ski season at Mt. Hutt in Canterbury, he took on his first vintage with Corbans in Gisborne—a pragmatic start to what would become a passionate 40+ year career. Tony later graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Oenology from Charles Sturt University in Australia. By then, he was already putting his newfound knowledge and experience to good use, having co-founded Sacred Hill Wines in rural Hawke’s Bay with the Mason brothers in 1986.

At Tony Bish Wines, we are renowned for our innovative approach to chardonnay production. One of the unique techniques we use is that of of egg-shaped fermentation vessels. These vessels harness natural convection currents generated by the heat during fermentation, ensuring the lees remain in full contact with the wine. This process results in chardonnays that are incredibly textured and full-bodied.

We use both concrete and French oak eggs. The concrete eggs provide a neutral environment that allows the pure fruit flavours to shine, whilst the French oak eggs impart subtle oak nuances, adding complexity and depth to the wine. This innovative use of egg-shaped fermenters exemplifies our commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional winemaking to create exceptional chardonnays.