Mills Reef Reserve Gimblett Gravels Merlot Malbec 2021

Mills Reef Reserve Gimblett Gravels Merlot Malbec 2021Immediately warm and appetising, this deliciously harmonious blend of two classical Bordeaux varieties showcases boysenberry and plum fruits, complemented with spicy leather, hints of blueberry, violets and embodied with silky smooth tannins. The 2020 21 growing season in Hawkes Bay enjoyed a climate of consistently warm clear sunny days and uniform temperatures, allowing grapes to develop perfectly and be harvested unhurried at optimal ripeness.

Immediately warm and appetising, this deliciously harmonious blend of two classical Bordeaux varieties showcases boysenberry and plum fruits, complemented with spicy leather, hints of blueberry, violets and embodied with silky smooth tannins.

The 2020/21 growing season in Hawkes Bay enjoyed a climate of consistently warm clear sunny days and uniform temperatures, allowing grapes to develop perfectly and be harvested unhurried at optimal ripeness. Crafted from grapes grown in the highly acclaimed Gimblett Gravels, harvest occurred on the 12th and 26th March, 2021 at optimum ripeness, balance and flavour.

The grapes were gently crushed, cold-soaked for three days before undergoing fermentation in stainless steel tanks, with gentle daily cap management to extract colour, flavour and fine tannin structure. A post-ferment maceration followed over ten days. The skins were then pressed off and the wine aged for eleven months in quality oak barrels (25% French new wood), undergoing one racking during this time. Bottling occurred on the 4th April 2022 under screwcap.

Food Pairing: An excellent choice with Roasted duck breast and plum sauce, with a side of duck fat fries.