A red blend from a single vineyard – the grapes sourced from the lower terrace of the Askerne vineyard in Hawke’s Bay. Carménère is a rarity in New Zealand, but in this blend it makes up three-quarters of the components. 76% Carménère, 12% Syrah, 11% Mourvèdre and 1% Malbec were each fermented as separate batches, spending extended time post maceration on their skins to build richness and tannin complexity. A dense burgundy-red in the glass. The Carménère can’t help but lead the way – a smoky richness fronting the perfume. Plum, cherry, boysenberry, vanilla and tobacco jostle for attention. Quite rich and decadent, with a fine tannin and a lick of tasty oak that suits the style. Integrated acidity quietly offers some flow, and before you know it, there’s a velvet texture surrounding things and just a hint of musky spice and peppercorn into the smooth finish. 92pts
Askerne CSM 2023
