A Southern Hemisphere Pinot harvested during the first half of the 2021 calendar year may seem like a latecomer to our shores, but this certainly benefitted from development during the interim since the fruit was picked. Ripe black cherry fruit is augmented by pleasantly earthy notes recalling wild mushrooms and spicy accents. This a terrific overachiever in relation to its price.
A single vineyard wine from Marlborough’s Waihopai sub-district, this shows a fully ripe profile with delicious fruit sweetness but no confected or sugary character. Lemon curd and mango fruit notes predominate, with an edge of freshly squeezed lime acidity providing both textural definition and flavor complexity.
A blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot, with a nod to Bordeaux’s Pauillac district. Earthy and mineral-driven with cassis and cedar spice. A touch of herbaceous permeates, with eucalyptus and graphite. Tobacco is sweetened by ripe purple plum and violets on the long, deep finish.
A spectacular tribute to Pomerol on Bordeaux’s Right Bank is this blend of 67% Merlot and 33% Malbec. Beginning with a lush and muscular frame, it casts a spell on the palate with a satchel of violets, graphite, chocolate truffles, and black raspberry. Elegant and enduring.
With 72% Cabernet Franc, 24% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot and 19 months in 225-liter French oak, the inspiration here is from the Grand Cru wines off the Right Bank of Bordeaux in St. Émilion. Violets and tobacco intertwine with blackberry and plum, forward and lush. Tannins are approachable with long, broad strokes of coffee and black raspberry.
A deep dive into a well of concentrated black cherry and smashed plum preserves. Mocha latte appears mid-way, rich and delicious, powered by a juicy flow along a path of sleek tannin. Aged 18 months in 225-liter French barrels (38% new) with the addition of 2% Grenache Blanc and 1% Roussanne.
Cranberry and vanilla are beautifully in sync with a juicy wash of sweet rose petals. Light, lively, and seasoned with cinnamon tea and strawberry jam.
Pineapple and banana are framed by a wash of grapefruit and sweet basil. Purity of flavor is backed by a fresh, mineral-toned finish.