Reserve Merlot 2008
Vintage: 2008Variety: MerlotArea: Gimblett Gravels, Hawkes BayWinemaker: Tim Preston and Paul DawickAlcohol: 14%Tasting Notes:The grapes for this distinguished wine were grown in the stony free-draining soils of our Mere Road vineyard in the renowned Gimblett Gravels of Hawkes Bay, on low yielding close spaced vines. They were picked at ideal ripeness on April 5th at an average 24.2 brix, cold-soaked for four days, then fermented in stainless steel tanks and pumped over twice daily for colour and flavour extraction. The resulting wine was aged for 12 months in quality French oak barrels (60% new and 40% one year old). Bottling took place under screwcap on 15th July 2009. This deep purple-red wine exudes aromas of ripe blackcurrant, blackberry and plum, with dark chocolate notes and hints of spice and rose petal. The palate is rich and full-bodied with intense blackberry and plum flavours, dried herbs, liquorice, spicy cigar-box and a hint of smokiness, balanced with a lovely fine acid structure and supple tannins leading to a sustained silky finish. Approachable now, it will continue to reward cellaring for 3 to 5 years.
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