From Waiheke island, a Bordeaux Blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Franc. You can think of it as an approachable, fruit-forward version of the Larose, but it is a great wine in its own right. The Malbec lends the purple boysenberry softness on the nose that complements the drier currant notes, lavender and dried herb nuance of the Cabernet. More plum, clove, bacon fat, chamomile, elderberry and violets emerge as the aromas gush forth. Young and bright – a festival of ripe dark fruits such that you only notice the serious structure after a while. The tannin is wide and grippy across the palate, with an acidity that is tight and vibrant. Some savoury ‘sous bois’ and mocha characters and a decent nudge of smoky, toasted oak lie in support of that concentrated dark fruit. An elegant wine nonetheless, and one that must surely be destined for a gilded future if aged well – imagine this in ten years time… 94pts
Stonyridge Airfield 2019
