Mills Reef Estate Hawke's Bay Merlot Cabernet 2020

Description

• French oak
• Boysenberry
• Liquorice & leather
• Velvety tannins

"Fresh, vibrant red with dark cherry/berry, plum, spicy oak and dried herbs supported by a backbone of fine tannins and gentle acidity. Moderately mellow and accessible wine from a favourable vintage" Bob Campbell, Master of Wine, Real Review, Oct 2023

This fine Merlot Cabernet blend has lovely blackcurrant and boysenberry aromas and flavours underlined with toasty oak. Complemented with subtle liquorice, leather and velvety tannins, this full bodied wine has a long lingering finish.

The grapes for this beautifully crafted blend of Merlot (72%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (28%) were selected from their superior Bridge Pa vineyard with a mix of alluvial and clay soils.

The 2020 growing season experienced a coolish spring followed by a long dry summer. These conditions proved perfect for ripening and, without the pressure of rainfall, harvesting was able to done when the fruit was in its premium condition. The Merlot was harvested on 29th March, with the Cabernet 8 days later on the 6th April.

Each parcel was individually fermented in stainless steel tanks for enhanced colour and flavour extraction with specifically selected yeasts. After an extended 10 days skin contact post ferment the batches were aged in 25% new French oak. The final blend was composed on the 27th April - 72% Merlot and 28% Cabernet Sauvignon.
Bottling took place on the 21st of May 2021, under screwcap closure.

Food Pairing: Matured with quality French oak for twelve months, it is approachable and will be a perfect accompaniment with a chargrilled steak and caramelised roast vegetables.