Using Cabernet Sauvignon fruit from the Cornerstone Vineyard, in Gimblett Gravels area of Hawke’s Bay. The fruit de-stemmed and put into an amphora vessel. Plunged and then sealed up for 150 days before pressing into barrel.
A deep garnet red colour in the glass. The bouquet has pure Cabernet varietal – blackcurrant, black cherry, plum, rosemary, thyme, peppercorn, dark chocolate and hibiscus florals. The palate shows a tannin that is quite dusty – another typicity (but this time from the region), and is pliant, balancing well with the zing of acidity. A nibble of savoury flavour, with graphite and black olive sitting at the edges, with the plush fruit taking centre stage. Texture here is also a key component, with a soft generosity through the palate. A graceful wine with a lightness of touch and plenty of flow into a complex, harmonic finish. 94pts
