Double Gold Medal – New Zealand International Wine Show 2021 & 2022
Gold Medal – Hawkes Bay Wine Show 2022
A blend of mainly Merlot and Cabernet Franc grown on the Gimblett Gravels made in a style that emphasizes the delicious dark fruits from a very good vintage.
Winery notes (2021 Vintage)
"This red is predominantly a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, with smaller amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot adding further complexity and interest. Cherry/plum flavours and the suppleness of Merlot combine with the violet perfume and blackberry flavours of Cabernet Franc to produce a serious, yet eminently drinkable wine packed full of flavour and character. A versatile wine that can be enjoyed on its own or partnered with a wide range of different flavoured foods. Ready to drink now but will reward short to medium-term cellaring (three to five years from harvest date).
The 2020/2021 growing season in Hawke’s Bay was warm and dry; perfect conditions to produce ripe, rich, and distinctive red varietals. Each individual vineyard parcel was harvested separately and destemmed prior to fermentation. Gentle daily pumping over of the skins during fermentation helped extract a soft, complex structure. Extended maceration on skins following fermentation helped to further integrate and soften the tannins. Following aging in stainless steel tanks the individual blocks were blended to create the ideal wine."
93/100 David Walker Bell, WineFolio.co.nz, February 2022 (2021 Vintage)
"A classic Hawke’s Bay ‘red blend’ of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. An inky dark ruby in the glass, and a generous bouquet of bramble, plum, vanilla, elderberry and star anise with a floral lift of violet. Medium bodied, with a youthful energy and plush red fruits flowing into the palate with a vibrant, integrated acidity and plump, soft tannins. Liquorice, dark chocolate and spice lie in layers amongst a glossy texture. Vibrant, poised and succulently ripe, it is satisfyingly complex, and an excellent showcase for the region, at an appealing price."
4 Stars Michael Cooper (2021 Vintage)
"Already very approachable, the 2021 vintage is a generous, buoyantly fruity blend of Merlot (58 per cent), Cabernet Franc (35 per cent), Cabernet Sauvignon (5 per cent) and Petit Verdot (2 per cent), estate-grown at three sites in the Gimblett Gravels and aged in stainless steel tanks, rather than oak barrels. Deeply coloured, it is fragrant, mouthfilling and supple, with strong blackcurrant, plum and spice flavours. Best drinking mid-2023+."
4 Cuisine NZ Bordeaux Style Red, June 2024 (2020 Vintage)
"Aromas of ripe, juicy red fruits sit alongside a subtle spice and delicate herbals on the nose. The palate is fruit forward, well weighted and plush with fresh, bright acid that gives lift. Generous oak and supple tannins."
90/100 Bob Campbell MW, The Real Review (2021 Vintage)
"A blend of merlot, cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon and petit verdot from a very favourable vintage. Ripe berry, plum, red rose, floral and a hint of fresh herbs. A lively wine that offers good drinking now but no rush. Good value at this price."