‘The Hillside’ is from the famed The Terraces Vineyard in Bay View, Hawke’s Bay – this first version of the wine was Malbec dominant. A dark dense claret colour, with a little magenta flashing at the rim. Bright and focussed on the nose – blooming with aromas of damson, cassis, moss, cherry, pepper, boysenberry, wood smoke and musky, rose petal florals. Decadent and concentrated – fairly open and expressive into the palate with more dark fruit, liquorice, and oriental spices. Tannins are soft, ripe and integrated. Acidity is still lively, adding a line of focus giving good direction and movement. Secondary characters are forming – some savoury mocha, umami and tapenade. Nice balance and complexity – an interesting and evolving glassful. The finish is superb – smooth, sweet and unctuous. 94pts.
Esk Valley ‘The Hillside’ 2010
