A grape varietal that has a home in Spain, and in particular in the great wines of Rioja. Although it is a rare find in New Zealand, the bottles that I have tried have mostly been a triumph. This wine, from the renowned Gimblett Gravels sub-region of Hawke’s Bay, was the Champion ‘International Red Wine varieties’ Trophy winner at the New Zealand International Wine Show for the last vintage. A dense, inky black colour in the glass, with equally intense and juicy aromas of blackcurrant, raspberry and blood orange. The nose is also spicy and rich, with liquorice, pepper, nutmeg, pumpkin and cocoa notes. The tannin is powerful – youthful but supple. A zing of acidity carries the palate, giving great length and succulence. Very good now, but has the structure to potentially develop into something even better. For now, decant – or hide away for at least five years. 94pts
Trinity Hill Tempranillo 2022
