MILLS REEF RESERVE MERLOT 2022

Top 12 Gimblett Gravels 2022 Annual Vintage Selection by Andrew Caillard MW

The concept of the Gimblett Gravels Annual Selection is to present 12 of the very best reds from the vintage. They can be any variety or blend, and wineries may be represented by more than one wine. The dozen is selected by Andrew Caillard MW, a Sydney-based wine auctioneer, presenter, writer, and more. The 2022 list includes some seriously big hitting Hawke’s Bay reds like Church Road TOM Syrah, and Craggy Range Le Sol so for a wine at this price point to be included is impressive stuff!

Winery notes (2022 Vintage)
"This full-bodied Merlot sourced from the esteemed Gimblett Gravels is opulent with violets, blackberry and boysenberry fruits with dark chocolate and toasty oak notes. Velvety textured, succulent with a hint of leather."

96+/100 Andrew Caillard MW (2022 Vintage)
"Medium deep crimson. Red plum, blackcurrant, mocha, marzipan aromas with hints of herb garden. Generous red plum, cassis flavours with well integrated marzipan vanilla grilled nut notes, fine grainy textures and long fresh mineral acidity. Finishes claret firm with espresso, chocolatey notes. A beautifully made wine highlighting precision winemaking, intuitive maturation timing and selection. Drink 2026 – 2036."

Rated Excellent & 93/100 Cameron Douglas MS, April 2024 (2022 Vintage)
"Aromas and flavours of roasted plums and chocolate spices, vanilla and clove, black currant flesh and baked stone soil suggestions. On the palate there’s a nice weight and firmness, core red fruit flavours reflect the bouquet, with the main feature being the mouthfeel with dusty tannins and silky acid line. Balanced, well made and ready. A wine well suited to Winter fare with best drinking from 2024 through 2029."