Winner of the Champion Cabernet Sauvignon & Predominant Blends Trophy at the New Zealand International Wine Show this year. Grown in the Gimblett Gravels region of Hawke’s Bay, where free-draining soils help deliver ripe flavours with good tannin development. I have examples of this wine going back decades, so I can appreciate the pedigree and ageability. It is broad and approachable now, but does develop extra complexity in your cellar.
A dense and inky burgundy-red in the glass. Red cherry, plum, blackberry and cassis fruit aromas mingle with coffee bean, provençal herbs, toasty spice and a floral lavender lift. The palate is creamily textural and soft, with a good depth of fruit concentration. Structure is subtle and well-integrated – the tannin fine and a level of oak toast that suits the rich style. The pulse of fresh acidity gives good carry through to a smooth finish with good length. 94pts
