Part of Kim Crawford's premier "Small Parcels" tier, this opaque and thick Hawkes Bay Merlot is doused with 28% Cabernet Sauvignon. Ample wood is evident from the start, with 14 months in French and American oak, 31% of which was new. Black cherry and kirsch aromas continue on the full-bodied palate, along with bitter black chocolate, mint, dried blackberry and fruitcake. The wood tannins are strident, propping up the ripe, weighted fruit before a black espresso finish. A bit clumsy; best poured with rich short ribs and mashed root vegetables.
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