From the 2016 vintage which was a game of two halves – with a markedly cool spring, followed by a very warm and reasonably dry Summer and Autumn. As a result Growing Degree Days (GDD) were close to the exceptional 2013 and 2014 vintages.
The fruit was hand-picked from Hill Country Estate vineyards – which is a cluster of limestone terraces nestled among the hills of the Te Mata Special Character Zone and is the highest elevation Syrah vineyard in Hawke’s Bay (160m above sea level).
Aged 15 months in French barriques (50% new). Unfined and unfiltered to retain maximum concentration and integrity. Estate bottled and labelled, individually hand-numbered bottles with this being bottle 963 of 1264 – under screwcap.
In the glass it presents with a deep, opaque, medium purple. The perfume is as savoury as it is fruity – with aromas of white mushroom and bacon fat, plus a lift of violet florals. Below that are notes of plum and touch of white pepper. The structure in the palate features polished tannins and a fresh, vibrant acidity. Here, the fruit profile is restrained and is more Old-world like. Savoury notes show, with a return of that white pepper and adds some spice. The finish lingers and is very moreish. 92pts
