Grape Variety: 100% Malbec

Growing Region: Hawke's Bay, New Zealand

Head Winemaker: Peter Robertson

TASTING NOTE:
The grapes for this 2012 'Sun-Dried' Malbec were selectively harvested from Ohiti Estate and the Tuki Tuki Valley vineyard sites. The Malbec vines that Peter tends too readily achieve ripeness each vintage, with each parcel normally being harvested at 23 Brix or more. The sun-drying of bunches enhanced the sugar concentration inside each berry, as well as the flavour and colour.

The Malbec grapes were carefully handpicked, and then 'sun-dried' in trays for three to four weeks before being made into wine. Open fermentation tanks were used, so the grapes could be hand plunged. Due to the loss of moisture with the sun-drying, the cap is quite thick and demands more attention than normal when plunged. After pressing, and malolactic fermentation had occurred, then the Malbec went into French barriques for a further 6 months of development.

In the glass you have a deep dark red colour wine. This wine is both bold in colour and fruit, this is typical of Peter's 'Sun-Dried' Malbec, but from the 2012 vintage. Sun-Drying enhances the bouquet, and the palate is energized. Rich berry flavours come to the fore, and the integrated tannins give the wine length. Decant for 35-45 minutes and serve at 17-18C.

CELLARING POTENTIAL:
Drinking well this coming season; and will appreciate another 5-7 years.

SUGGESTED FOOD MATCHES:
Perfect wine match with prime cuts of meat, with wild mushrooms or a slowly reduced jus, enjoy.

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