Hawke's Bay's Gimblett Gravels winegrowing district lies on the ancient bed of the Ngaruroro River, which changed course in 1867 to expose the soils for possible viticulture. The relatively low altitude and proximity to the sea, yet sheltered by the direct effect of the sea breeze, create a temperate maritime climate. This location, altitude and the stony soil's warming influence make it the warmest site in Hawke's Bay. The lack of excessive heat in the Gimblett Gravels is also a critical factor as it means the aromatic characters in the fruit, which contribute to the floral notes, are retained. The soils are composed of small to medium-sized greywacke stones interspersed with layers of silt and sand down to a depth of at least 40 metres. The stones on the surface
absorb sunlight and heat during the day and then radiate heat at night, enhancing the vine's ripening capacity. The stony soil structure allows for very rapid drainage after rainfall events; the low water-holding ability allows the vine’s growth to be controlled. The soils in this locality produce rich, ripe, yet elegantly structured red wines with a distinctive mineral, hot stone and fine dusty character, affectionately known as 'Gimblett Dust'.