Nose
Presenting a bouquet that is both savory and sweet, this deep ruby wine expresses rich aromas of ripe, brambly blackberry, sweet red cherry and blackcurrant, enrobed by wisps of smoky oak, Oolong tea, dried sage leaf and dark chocolate mocha.
Palate
Leading with vivid cherry and fresh raspberry fruits, the lush palate echoes with nuances of white pepper, maple-brown sugar and sweet basil, underscored by velvety tannins on the graceful finish.
Growing Conditions
The 2010 vintage was cooler than usual during the growing season, but ended with a heat wave.
Harvest
The fruit for this wine was harvested at an optimal level of ripeness early September to mid-October.
Winemaking
Fermentation took place at a high temperature to ensure that maximum extraction was achieved.
Aging
The wine was racked to 50% new French oak barrels. The wine was aged in barrel for a total of 18 months before bottling.
Food Pairing
A classic, meaty dish, such as a rack of New Zealand lamb chops and grilled vegetables with hollandaise, makes a fine partner for this elegantly powerful bottling. Alternatively, this complex beauty is equally enjoyable after dinner alongside dark chocolate truffles or an earthy, semi-soft cheese like Ossau, a Basque cheese made from ewe’s milk.