Winemakers Notes
If there’s a ‘big’ wine in my lineup it is this one. But keeping with the Testify mantra, it’s still a wine of purity and elegance and truly the best Hawke’s Bay red I could produce in each vintage. From the first 2016 rendition I made of purely Malbec, this has evolved to include Merlot (some co-fermented) and coming soon a Malbec/Syrah. Coming off the certified organic Gimblett Gravels vineyard this wine is intense, structured and quite peppery making for an intriguing experience.
Vineyard
Hawke’s Bay is located on the East Coast of the North Island of New Zealand. The region enjoys dry summers with moderate, cool nights. This wine reflects a single vineyard Malbec dominant blend 60% with 40% Merlot which was grown organically on the famous Gimblett Gravels appellation. The Gimblett Gravels is marked by specific soils laid bare from the constantly shifting Ngaruroro River over millions of years. The river’s last shift in 1867 left these amazing rocky soils, which combined with the slightly inland Heretaunga Plains’ weather, and classic viticulture techniques created a uniquely expressive Malbec.
Reviews
Bob Campbell, The Real Review - 95 points
A blend of 60% malbec and 40% merlot. Dense, ripe, sweet berry fruit, plum, chocolate/moccha and vanilla flavours. Generously proportioned wine that is deliciously accessible now but promises to deliver much more with further bottle age. Drink 2023 - 2033.
Sam Kim, The Wine Orbit - 95 points
Superbly ripe and perfumed, the bouquet shows blackcurrant, Black Doris plum, floral, olive and cedar characters. The palate displays excellent concentration and richness, wonderfully structured by fine texture and chalky tannins. It's robust and sturdy with silky mouthfeel, finishing impressively long and engaging. 60% Malbec & 40% Merlot from the Gimblett Gravels. Certified organic. At its best: now to 2034.
