 Click for larger image | Vintage: 2006
Varieties: Merlot / Cabernet Sauvignon
Area: Hawkes Bay
Winemaker: Paddy Preston and Tim Preston
Alcohol %: 13.5 Tasting Note: This classic Hawkes Bay blend was produced from prime Gimblett Gravels grapes, comprising 84% Merlot and 16% Cabernet Sauvignon.
Merlot was the first to be harvested on April 10th at 23.2 brix, and the later-ripening Cabernet Sauvignon followed two weeks later on April 24th at 24.8 brix.
The juice was fermented on its skins in stainless steel tanks to create an opulent fruit forward style, and then partially aged in oak for seasoning and enhanced complexity.
Bottling took place on two days, 12th and 14th September 2007.
The resulting wine exudes intense complex aromas of cherry and berry fruits, black olives and a hint of fresh mint. On the palate, this full bodied wine has concentrated flavours of brambly black berry fruits, plums and cherries, with supple integrated tannins - an approachable and satisfying style that finishes dry and fruity.
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