Craggy Range Gimblett Gravels Syrah
Gimblett Gravels Syrah is a wine made using multiple parcels from the vineyard, the blending of these different parcels of grapes combine to create a wine that is truly distinct of its terrior and appealing palate. A satin like texture gives way to chewy vibrant berry fruit and mineral yet complex finish.
Te Mata Estate Coleraine
Brilliant magenta, Coleraine '16 entices with concentrated rose syrup, fresh, fragrant raspberry, wild strawberry, ripe plum, thyme and cedar. Offering superb depth and complexity, Coleraine '16 is defined by a precise, lazer-edge of pure, bright, red fruit. Framed by tight acid and silky tannins, all this extends elegantly into an exquisite and super-fine crescendo, giving exceptional length and finesse to the wine. Each parcel of grapes was destemmed before a traditional warm, plunged fermentation and extended maceration on skins. The resulting wines were then run to predominately new French oak barrels for 18 months' maturation. Throughout this time, they were regularly topped and racked. The separate wines were blended in January 2017 then egg white fined during their second winter in barrel. The finished wine was then bottled in December 2017. The final blend is 51% cabernet sauvignon, 47% merlot and 2% cabernet franc. Established in 1896, Te Mata Estate remains family owned, producing internationally recognized wines exclusively from its Hawkes Bay vineyards. A temperate maritime climate with low rainfall, due to the rain shadow from mountains to the west, ensures Te Matas sites make the most of every vintage. At the heart of Te Mata Estate are the Havelock Hills Vineyards - the first legally-protected vineyards in New Zealand. Te Mata has five sites on these free draining, north-facing slopes. Soils to the east are mostly sandy loam over a sandstone base, and towards the west are sandy loam over a thin layer of clay and a silica pan. The distinctive shape of the hills is due to their comparative youth, in geological terms. At the meeting point of two tectonic plates, sandstone has been pushed up then worn away relatively quickly leaving a landscape of steep and gentle slopes, and terraces ideal for grape-growing. Under vine for over 120 years, and including some of the oldest grape growing sites in New Zealand, the Havelock Hills are protected for their distinct character, special ambience and unique viticultural heritage.
Craggy Range Hawkes Bay Appellation Syrah
Flametree Cabernet Merlot
A lovely example of Margaret River Cabernet Merlot, Flametree Cabernet Merlot is showing big dense fruit characters of blackcurrant and stewed plums. A silky seamless palate with rich fruit concentration and chocolaty complexity. Matured in French oak barrels has softened and rounded this wine.
Tahbilk Cabernet Sauvignon
Notes of mint and five-spice are evident on a sturdily constructed palate of black olive, herbs and dark fruits alongside fine, ripe tannins that will support the development of additional character and complexity if cellared.
Cow Bombie Cabernet Merlot
The typical Margaret River Cabernet characters of red berries and leafiness are neatly balanced with the softer, plummy notes of Merlot.
Red Knot Cabernet Sauvignon
McLaren Vale reds are known for generosity of fruit. Red Knot Cabernet, with it's cassis, dark berried characters and a lingering finish, has the added bonus of being terrific value for money.
Paul Mas Cabernet Sauvignon
Impressive intensity of fleshy blackcurrant and blueberry flavours framed by structured tannins, Paul Mas Cabernet Sauvignon is a gem found in the South of France with amazing value.
Oakridge Cabernet Sauvignon
Oakridge are well known for their white wine styles, especially their Chardonnay, but don't forget the Yarra Valley Cabernet Sauvignon that can do so well. Lovely lifted spice; bright and attractive cassis fruit and layers of fine grained tannin will greet the drinker and will be welcomed by any serious Cabernet lover.
McGuigan Black Label Merlot
McGuigan produce another fantastically smooth and rich Merlot from their Black Label range. It is a soft and flavoursome wine with ripe fruit flavours of raspberry, cherry and plums integrated with subtle oak.