From a single vineyard on Waiheke Island, this wine is the wineries highly regarded top label. They come with our (and reviewers) highest recommendation.
Why Mystery labels? We use these when a producer may wish to clear excess stock or end of vintage lines, but they don't want to compromise the brand integrity, especially on-line where names and prices are visible to all. We can’t tell you the producer or normal RRP here – you’ll find this out when you open the box or come into store.
Winery notes (2021 Vintage)
"An elegantly concentrated palate of black berries, black pepper & seductive spices. Nutty oak balanced by fine chocolatey tannins. Violet & black florals lead to a stylish lingering finish with mineral elements."
5 Stars & 96/100 Sam Kim, Wine Orbit,February 2023 (2021 Vintage)
"Richly fruited with stunning fruit purity and perfume, the wine shows Black Doris plum, blueberry, violet, warm spice and cedar characters on the nose. The palate displays splendid concentration and plush texture, wonderfully complemented by velvety tannins. Mouthfilling and flavoursome with grace and sophistication. At its best: now to 2036."
Rated Excellent & 94/100 Cameron Douglas MS, February 2023 (2021 Vintage)
"Opaque with a dark purple core and pinkish rim. Aromas and flavours of blackcurrant berries and raspberry, clay and spices, sweet meats and baking spices with a whisp of vanilla and smoky barrel. Fleshy, fruity, salivating and dry as the wine touches the palate. Firm textures from tannins and acidity with core fruit flavours reflecting the bouquet, raspberries and plums, milk chocolate and spices. A delicious, well made wine with a fleshy mouthfeel and lengthy finish. Best drinking from late 2023 through 2029."
5 Stars & 18.5+/20 (94) Candice Chow, Raymond Chan Reviews, January 2023 (2021 Vintage)
"Deep purple with a ruby core, lighter on the rim. This has an expressive, elegant bouquet with penetrating aromas of violet overlying black Doris plum and blackberry interweave spice, cured meat and cedar. Medium-full bodied, the palate shows blackberry and black Doris with a suggestion of balsamic marinated strawberry intertwined with violet, black pepper, cedar, clove, black tea and minerals. Fine-grained tannins provide a fine structure adorned with spice; lively acidity enlivens and lengths the finish. This elegant Syrah possesses attractive red and black fruit with a vibrant acid balance and a structured mouthfeel. Match with lamb steak and beef over the next 5+ years. Fermented to 14% alc, aged in French & American (10%) oak barrels, 30% new oak. Vegan friendly."