A red wine from the Gimblett Gravels sub-region of Hawke’s Bay, in a superb vintage. A near-black purple tone in the glass. The bouquet is smoky and musky – intriguingly so, with incense and savoury notes coming through along with some ripe doris plum, blackberry and cherry. A tightness to the dry palate appears to come from the chalky tannin, showing some grip, and contrasting with the plush fruit. Bold – robust even – with satisfying depth and a glossy texture. A balanced acidity prods the wine forward through the palate, and the finish is dry, with some herbal tones, and has good length. 91pts
Mission Estate Reserve Cabernet Franc 2020
