A return to taste a wine that I reviewed a couple of years ago, at the start of 2022. As a critic, it is a good exercise to see look back at wines and see how they can develop… and whether you agree with your past self on tasting notes. This wine did win a Double Gold at the NZIWS on release (the 2021 Awards) so it’s not just myself who rated it!
A classic Hawke’s Bay ‘red blend’ led by Merlot, with Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot also present in the mix. A very dear, near black, purple colour in the glass. The bouquet is voluminous – a good swirl reveals a cloud of plum, blackberry, cinnamon, liquorice, mulberry and vanilla. The palate is a little lighter than the colour suggests, with that glossy lent a vibrant lift from perky acidity. Structure comes from tannin and oak, both restrained and well-integrated, but giving a supple spine to the wine. 2021 was a decent vintage, and this ripe, smooth blend is an approachable example of a well-crafted Hawke’s Bay red. 93pts
