A red ‘Bordeaux Blend’ from handpicked fruit sourced from 13 year old vines in the Gimblett Gravels of Hawke’s Bay. The blend is Cabernet Sauvignon 50%, Merlot 35% and Cabernet Franc 15%. It sees 20 months in French oak with around 60% new. Sealed under cork, which was in excellent condition. Deep opaque ruby with little signs of ageing. Wow – a very lifted fragrant nose – like a bowl of mixed black fruits – blackberries, boysenberry, blackcurrant, cassis with a background but still overt charred oak. Silky tannins with a plush, round generosity of fruit. Many years ahead but is benefiting from some age – while having all the fruit & vibrancy that makes it so appealing now. 96pts
Sacred Hill Helmsman 2013
