A Hawke’s Bay wine – one of the ‘classic’ Bordeaux style blends that the region is known for. A plentiful purple with magenta flashes at the edges – some Malbec lending colour and also aromatics into the mix. Cherry, plum, redcurrant, graphite, blackcurrant, and herbs on the nose. An elegant drop, with youthful, flowing intensity – generous through the palate, and definitely ready to drink. Robust, with some muscle, fine supple tannins and a decent dose of toasty oak. Spiced with star anise and clove, and with liquorice and cocoa notes to round out the dense fruit flavours. Good value here. 91pts