CRAGGY RANGE SOPHIA MERLOT / CABERNETS 2024

Product Code: 5532
Country: New Zealand
Region: Hawkes Bay
Sub Region: Gimblett Gravels
Style: Red
Variety: Cabernet / Merlot Blend
Producer: Craggy Range

Closure: Screw Cap
Unit: Each
Volume: 750ml
Alcohol: 14.5%
Grape: 79% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon

$160.00

In stock

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Winery notes (2024 Vintage)
"Our Prestige wines represent the pinnacle of our terroir and winemaking, meticulously crafted from select blocks of our single vineyard estates.The 2024 release marks our 25th harvest, and the first vintage guided by Chief Winemaker Ben Tombs.

Sophia, the height of elegance and longevity, predominantly showcases Merlot, complemented by Cabernet Franc, and a portion of Cabernet Sauvignon. Crafted at our Giants Estate Winery, Sophia embodies opulence and ripe flavours with a tannin structure supporting extensive ageing. With vines now over 25 years old, our distinct Merlot blocks contribute aromatic elegance and plush power. Evolving winemaking techniques yield depth and balance with silk-laden tannins accentuated by elevated perfume."

5 Stars & 96/100 Stephen Wong MW, The Real Review (2024 Vintage)
"Packed with dense layers of blackberry, blackcurrant, truffle, leather and smoky oak, this brooding and backward red is seriously concentrated and structured. Very submerged yet firm, structural tannins provide a framework for the intense and long flavours of black fruit, olive, cocoa and warm earth to unfold over the impressive finish. A seam of vibrant acidity runs right through the wine, carrying more vital elements of redcurrant, floral and tangy freshness to balance the power and densityon display. One for the long haul, yet it should be approachable on the earlier side, if desired, especially if oak doesn't bother you. Serious stuff."

Rated Outstanding & 96/100 Cameron Douglas MS, July 2026 (2024 Vintage)
"Ripe and voluptuous with signatures of dark berries and plums, nettles and blackberry, new wood, new leather, wood smoke and stony dark clay earth ideas. Violets and plum, clove and vanilla, a bouquet of power and concentration, ripeness and intention. Full-bodied, firm and dry, equal power from fruit and alcohol, new wood, tannins and acidity deliver a wine of urgency then pause, concentration of fruit then acidity. A lengthy and complex finish, a wine to let settle and develop with best drinking from 2032 through 2040+."

95/100 Andrew Caillard MW (2024 Vintage)
"Medium deep crimson. Classical blackcurrant pastille, dark plum aromas with mocha/ vanilla notes. Beautifully balanced wine with inky smooth cassis, black cherry pastille fruits, fine grainy tannins and well-balanced mocha vanilla notes. Finishes cedar firm and long with plentiful mineral notes. A singular claret style with lovely depth, richness and vigour."

95/100 Ken Garegett, WinePilot.com, August 2026 (2024 Vintage)
"From the Gimblett Gravels sub-region in Hawkes Bay, Merlot (79%) is always dominant in this wine, supported by Cabernet Franc (14%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (7%). Each block of fruit used was matured separately in French oak before blending took place and the final wine then spent a further six months in oak. Another in the brilliant assembly of Craggy Range wines from the 2024 vintage, for me, the best collection they have ever released.

Deep blood red with a dark crimson edge, the nose exhibits aromas of plums, tobacco leaves, chocolate, cedar, warm earth, mushrooms, coffee grinds, aniseed, leather, animal skins and blackberries. There is savouriness here, but everything is kept well in check. A wine of power and focus with great intensity and direction, there is a line of bright acidity running the full journey through to the sleek tannins on a lingering and persistent finish. Enjoy over the next twenty years."

94/100 Tom Kline, WinePilot.com, August 2026 (2024 Vintage)
"A 79% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon blend anchored by Merlot from Block 24 (clone 481), hand-harvested after a cool, delayed budbreak and bunch- and berry-sorted before whole berries went into closed-top French oak cuves for 21-23 day ferments. Each block was matured separately in French oak before the final blend returned to oak for a further six months. A little shy initially, though unfurling nicely with milk chocolate, mulberry, plum and pencil shavings before some time in the glass reveals more prominent cedar, sweet tilled earth, graphite and spent coffee grinds. The graphite brings a mineral feel through the perfume bringing a lovely sense of shape. In the mouth it’s intense and precise – plum, cedar, chocolate, espresso, graphite again, a subtly minty edge. Very classy and fine but with a firm assertion of grainy tannins – not overt – but framing and elongating the wine to a long finish. I like this for its power that’s funnelled through a linear coil to great length. A strong release."

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Note, for orders of 1 - 2 bottles we charge an additional $6 for packaging. To ensure the safety of the bottles we use specially designed posting boxes.

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Craggy Range Winery, nestled in Hawke's Bay, New Zealand, stands as a renowned gem in the world of wine. Its breathtaking vineyards span across varied terrain, producing exquisite wines that mirror the region's unique terroir. Founded in 1997, Craggy Range is celebrated for its commitment to crafting exceptional single-vineyard wines that capture the essence of Hawke's Bay.

The winery's portfolio includes a diverse range of varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Chardonnay. These wines showcase both the expertise of the winemaking team and the distinctive characteristics of the land. The iconic Te Mata Peak forms a stunning backdrop to the vineyards, adding to the winery's visual allure.

Craggy Range Winery goes beyond its vinous offerings, encompassing a state-of-the-art winemaking facility, a luxurious lodge, and an award-winning restaurant. Visitors can savour not only the wines but also indulge in a complete sensory experience, immersing themselves in the beauty of the surroundings and the elegance of the architecture.

As a champion of sustainable practices, Craggy Range prioritises environmental stewardship in its vineyard management and winemaking processes. This dedication resonates with wine enthusiasts and environmental advocates alike.

In the heart of Hawke's Bay, Craggy Range Winery stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of nature's bounty and human craftsmanship. It continues to captivate the palates and hearts of wine lovers, making it a 'must-drink' producer for those seeking an authentic taste of New Zealand's winemaking excellence.