The golden-yellow glow gives the game away as much as the ‘Grand Reserve’ moniker. Big-time winemaker input and a very showy result. 40% new oak, total malo and lots of lees work. The fruit is of a higher standard than the basic model and there’s more length.
Cashew and cinnamon oak. It’s buttery, toasty, nutty and cheesy. Peaches and figs punch their way through the artifice. Given what it’s working with (or against, depending on your viewpoint) the acidity does a decent job of structuring and articulating the flavours. Shape wise it’s your typical tadpole wine but that narrow spark of refreshment is most welcome on the back-palate. A deluxe wine for sure. 91
Region: Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand
Alcohol: 13.0%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $38.99
Tasted: October 2013