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.