A Matakana wine, from a relatively hard-to-find hybrid grape varietal – more common northwards from northern Auckland. A lusty purple colour in the glass, and showing similarly dark and vibrant aromatics on the nose. Quite spicy, and with savoury notes of autumn leaves, mushroom and olive as well as cherry, black plum and bramble. A solid density to the palate, with robust, grippy tannin and a rustic, unpolished charm. Oak is well judged, and the there is a good acidity. A little greenness towards the back of the palate – menthol and woody herbs, but not unpleasant. One of the better examples I’ve tried of this in New Zealand. 89pts
Hyperion ‘The Liberator’ Chambourcin 2019
