Esk Valley Hillside Malbec Merlot Cabernet Franc Syrah 2019 750ml

Esk Valley Great Dirt Hillside Malbec Merlot Cabernet Franc Syrah 2019 750ml - Hawke's Bay

Awarded 5 Stars - Michael Cooper

Awarded 95/100 Points & 5 Stars - Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, Jun 2021

Awarded 94/100 Points - Cameron Douglas, Master Sommelier

This wine is sourced from the famed “Terraces” vineyard. This limestone-based vineyard on the northwest facing hillside at the old Esk Valley winery site in Bay View has long been known for its ability to make elegant and complex wine. The vineyard was initially planted in Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Franc in 1989 on re-established terraces which had sat idle for 30 years and then in 2007 an area of scrubland at the top of the hill was cleared for a small plot of Syrah. The vineyard is densely planted and dry-farmed with extremely low yields per vine.

This dark-fruited and complex wine integrates the structure of Bordeaux varietals with the elegance of Syrah. Flavours tend towards red fruits, plum, dark cherry and spice. Earthy tobacco and cedar notes add further complexity. The wine is soft and mouthfilling with well-ripened tannins and although approachable as a young wine should continue to develop complexity for many years to come. Decant before serving.

Alc: 14.5% 

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