Grape Variety: 100% Malbec

Growing Region: Gisborne - Tietjen Block, New Zealand

Consultant: Kim Crawford

TASTING NOTE:
I have always enjoyed the early approachable nature of Malbec and its suitability to so many Kiwi palates and cuisine. Yes - we generally need a site with a warm, long summer and this Gisborne vineyard and the 2010 vintage was just that.

After harvesting prime fruit, the grapes had a cold soak for colour extraction for three days, then warmed up and fermented dry. Early in the fermentation the wine was vigorously pumped over to extract the rich colour and flavours without extracting too much tannin. Once fermented dry, the wine was pressed off and underwent malolactic fermentation before filtering and bottling.

In the glass you will see a deep crimson, almost black colour. Sneaking out of the glass you have an elegant, lifted floral nose with hints of violets and black Doris plums, balanced nicely with hints of toasty oak and cassis. On the blind - you might even think you have in your glass a young full bodied red of Bordeaux qualities. On the palate hints of liquorice, black Doris plum and blackberry jam fill the mouth. The wine has good tannins, and the finish has lingering sweet fruit and clean acidity.

CELLARING POTENTIAL:
Drinking perfectly well this summer BBQ season; and over the next 2-3 years.

SUGGESTED FOOD MATCHES:
Perfect wine match with a bbq'd steak sandwich, tapas, or cheese board, enjoy.

An early drinking New Zealand red wine.