ČUVAR IRIS MALBEC / MERLOT 2022

Winery notes (2022 Vintage)
"Our Malbec Merlot comes from our Cornerstone vineyard growing in Hawke's Bays' famed Gimblett Gravels appellation. An area renowned for producing excellent hot climate reds. We think Cornerstone is the jewel in the appellation's crown but then again we are rather biased!

This beautiful blend combines rich plum and pomegranate fruit with hints of tobacco leaf and spice, layered over beautifully ripe tannins and well-handled oak."

92/100 Cameron Douglas MS, January 2022 (2022 Vintage)
"Dark hues of ruby and purple lead to a bouquet of plums, black berries and black spices, dark chocolate and wood smoke. Flavours of the palate of blackberry and black currant then plum, vanilla and clove are held together with a backbone of acidity and wood smoke, tannins and synergies of all. A dry wine with a salivating mouthfeel, texture and fruity finish. A wine that still needs some time for integration and a little softening. Best drinking from late 2024 through 2029."

5 Stars & 18.5/20 (93) Candice Chow, Raymond Chan Reviews, April 2024 (2022 Vintage)
"Deep ruby-red with a purple hue, faintly lighter on the rim. The nose is rich and opulent, with aromas of blackberry, plum, cigar, dark minerals and an amalgam of spice. Full-bodied, aromas of blackberry, plum interwoven pomegranate, cigar, dark minerals, cloves and star anise. The firm grip of fine-grained tannins reflects Gimblett Gravels and contributes a smoky mineral nuance; lively acidity refreshes the rich, fine-structured mouthfeel and lends a bold, long finish. Match with charred steak and braised shortribs over the next 5+ years. Fruit from Cornerstone vineyard in Gimblett Gravels, handpicked, destemmed, fermented in stainless steel to 13% alc, aged 14 months in French oak barriques."

90/100 David Walker Bell, WineFolio.com, Jauary 2024 (2022 Vintage)
"A Hawke’s Bay red blend – from the famous Cornerstone Vineyard in the Gimblett Gravels sub-region. An inkily dark ruby colour in the glass. Bountiful perfumes of liquorice, plum and dark chocolate sees the Malbec leading, with a richness and spice that the Merlot fills in with fleshy elderberry and eucalypt notes. Dry, with a bright acidity. Lots of savoury elements jostle that ripe fruit – olive, tobacco, leather and black pepper. Lithe tannins and subtle notes of smoky oak show, and linger through the palate. A toothsome texture and a juicy finish show promise for this to age well. "

Joelle Thomson, drinksbiz Magazine August/September 2024 (2022 Vintage)
"Dark, Spicy and vibrant with richly fruit-forward aromas and a smooth medium-bodied style. Impressive tannins add depth in an approachable style for a wine so young. Drink now and over the next three to four years, preferably paired with meaty slow-cooked dishes."