COLOUR

Deep ruby red

NOSE

Fruitcake spice and chocolate aromas.

PALATE

Medium bodied with juicy plum and mocha flavours.

SERVE

Room temperature.

PEAK DRINKING

2011-2014

SUGGESTED FOOD MATCH

Hearty Lamb Casserole

ALCOHOL VOLUME

13.75%

ACIDITY

5.7 g/L

RESIDUAL SUGAR

1.0 g/L

VINTAGE REGION

The fruit was sourced from the Stewar vineyard in the Bridge-pa sub region of Hawkes Bay.

VINTAGE CONDITIONS

The season started with a cool summer and there was concern about ripeness and reduced yields due to poor fruit set. However, a hot dry autumn with perfect weather throughout March and April provided the warmth and time for the fruit to ripen. As it turned out, harvest dates were almost two weeks later than expected across the region and most volumes were lower than expected but flavours and colour development in the merlot blocks were better than average.

GRAPE VARIETY

90% Merlot with a touch if Cab Franc.

MATURATION

Maturation of this wine was in a mix of stainless steel vessels and older French oak barriques.