The famous grape of Italian Barolo is a rarity in New Zealand – I only know of a few producers making a Nebbiolo here. This one is from Marlborough – made by artisan winemaker Hans Herzog. Intensely aromatic, with raspberry, bramble, cherry, liquorice, green herbs and rose petal florals on the nose. Smooth and precise into the palate, where a subtle balance between some complex elements makes for a mouth-filling sensation. Tannin, a key of Nebbiolo, is dry and fine, polished by slow soaks in the winemaking, elongating the structure and giving immense length to the body. Acidity is keen and fresh, highlighting the ripe fruit; and there’s a charry oak note that adds another spicy layer. The finish is already long and satisfying, but this should age for a very long time and just keep developing. 94pts
Hans Herzog Nebbiolo 2016
