The name for this premium cuvée is derived from the combination of the winery’s initials and the fact that only 7 barrels were selected. Full bodied, the wine offers incredible complexity in the form of an ever-evolving bouquet of mocha, coffee, cherry, plum, blueberry, smoke, minerals, pepper, graphite and mint. The mid palate is rich and ripe and the finale extensive. The tannins ensure drinkability over the next 7 years. It is a blend of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 41% Merlot and 14% Syrah.
Shows robust cherry and spicy character with a light whiff of green herb. Full-flavoured bitter cherry and red plum emerge on the palate with brisk acidity and firm tannic grip. Smoother spicy chocolate notes kick in on the finish. Better with 2 to 3 years additional aging.
From one of the top producers in Sicily, this is Carricante (carico means “burdened” which refers to the abundant fruit on these bush vines) 800 m above sea level on the sandy loam northern slopes of Mount Etna. This was vinified and matured in stainless steel, preserving the pure fruit and the electric acidity of volcanic Etna. White asparagus leads ample salty minerality, broken stones, herbal lees and brisk lemon pith/peel on this light-/medium-bodied, structural and defined frame. Profound, with appealing angularity and intriguing complexity, this drinks beautifully now in youth, but will reward further with time in the cellar.
This blend of handpicked Cab Sauv (54%), Merlot (32%), Cab Franc (9%) and Malbec (5%) brings out a Bordeaux-like nose, style and elegance. Hawke’s Bay warmth also comes through on its concentration, structure and dark fruit character. Loads of black fruit flavour, with lingering cedar and black olive. Drink until 2017.
Somewhat jammy ripe red berry and spice on the nose, with warm climate fruit and mocha character in the mouth, balanced by appropriate acidity and solid tannic grip.
This “passetoutgrain” showcases the Burgundian duo of Pinot Noir (63%) and Gamay (37%). Wild raspberry aromas lead, enlivened by an herbal verve. Bright red cherries burst on the tangy palate. The rustic finish lingers with sassafras, anise and tamarind on a mineral backbone. Pair with duck.
Fresh and lively with aromas and flavours of melon, mango, guava and gooseberry; crisp mouthfeel and absent of any grassiness. Well-made and a great value. A nice match with poached Arctic char or shellfish.