McMANIS FAMILY VINEYARDS PETITE SIRAH 2020

Californian wines have picked up a strong following here in New Zealand in recent years with drinkers embracing the bold styles that ooze with ripeness and easy drinkability. Petite Sirah (known as Durif in Australia) really suits the warm Californian climate and this rendition from McManis is packed full of big dark fruits with notes of chocolate and a good old dollop of oak. 

Winery notes (2020 Vintage)
"The 2020 offering of Petite Sirah from McManis Family Vineyards is vivid purple in colour, with aromas of full toned Blackberry and Boysenberry. Caramel and Toffee are evident in the bouquet, as well as a Chocolate oak profile. The wine is substantial, yet has a rich soft cream texture of mocha. Very elegant and full of ripe black fruit flavours of Blackberry and Blueberry. These fruit flavours are savoured in the lingering mouthwatering finish."

5 Stars & 93/100 Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, March 2022 (2020 Vintage)
"Upfront and instantly appealing with dark fruit richness, cocoa, cedar and warm spice characters, it's powerful and succulent on the palate delivering terrific fruit power combined with velvety texture, finishing persistent and delectable. At its best: now to 2027."

Rated Premium & 92/100 Cameron Douglas MS, March 2022 (2020 Vintage)
"Aromas of black currant and black berry, raspberry compote and sweet spicy oak scents. Reminds me of apple and blackberry pie with cloves and cinnamon spice layers. Youthful and refreshing bouquet overall. Even more powerful and fruity on the palate with flavours of dark berries and plums, toasty spices and a luscious sweetness of fruit and barrel. Flavours coat and stick to the palate with a fresh coffee bean quality. Medium acidity with fine moderate level tannins, balanced, well made and ready to drink from 2022 through 2028+."