A red wine, made from two-thirds Merlot and one third Malbec, from the Estate Vineyard on Waiheke Island, and a great vintage. A dense purple colour in the glass. Intense aromatics of damson plum, bramble, blackcurrant, woody herbs, hazelnut, vanilla and root beer on the bold nose. Showing good structure, with tannins that are firm and slightly blocky, but juicy acidity that gives a steady flow through the palate. A layer of toasty, almost smoky oak emerges alongside a granite-like minerality, adding bite and depth. The finish is dry and has plenty of length. Needs a bit more time to really show its best. 90pts
Cable Bay ‘Five Hills’ Merlot/Malbec 2020
