From a steep hillside vineyard at Earnscleugh, near Alexandra, the wine is a dark ruby, burgundy colour in the glass, with a spicy, dried herbal nose of thyme, budhleia, star anise and dark cherry. Dry, and medium bodied with grippy tannins and a bright, integrated acidity. On the palate is juicy black plum, cranberry, raspberry and a savoury edge of truffle, tobacco and olives. Enriched with a spicyness, with mocha and cake spices, working in tandem with a toasty lick of oak. 93pts. Discovered on a trip to Central, and was top value at under $30.