From Gibbston Valley in Central Otago. A deep ruby purple in the glass, with varietally pure and appealing aromatics. Perfumed with cherry, plum, anise, vanilla, raspberry, lavender, blood orange, with a peaty earthiness coming through underneath. Nice concentration on the palate, with a power and balance that is very stylish. Medium bodied, with lively acidity, fine-grained tannins and some toasty, whole-bunch influenced, spice. Integrated, silky and elegantly presented, showing a drinkability that’s ready now. A little minerality, a bit more savoury umami, and an enveloping, generous texture all slide in nicely towards the lengthy, spicy finish. 94pts