2008 Craggy Range Te Kahu Gimblett Gravels Vineyard Hawkes Bay

(92+ points) The 2008 Te Kahu Gimblett Gravels Vineyard is a blend of 64% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc, 14% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Malbec matured in 48% new oak for 18 months. It has an introverted bouquet with blackberry leaf, cassis, damson, vanilla and a touch of blueberry that unfurls nicely in the glass. The palate is tannic and very well defined, a captivating symmetry here with an irresistible velvety finish that lingers long after the wine has bid adieu. Although it already shows considerable breeding, it will offer more later. Drink 2014-2022+.
Wine Advocate Issue #191 Oct 2010 Reviewer: Neal Martin

This is by far the best value in the line-up a right bank style Bordeaux blend with a very classy and Bordeaux like bouquet of plum and cherry fruit, dried tobacco spice and fresh earth nuance. Light and evenly balanced on the tongue with fruit earth and acidity, a nice long finish here, this wine over delivers for the $$. Finish 40+ Excellent

Te kahu means 'the cloak' in Te Reo Maori and refers to the mist that envelops our Giants Winery in the Tuki Tuki Valley. Legend has it that this mist was used to protect a mythical Maori maiden from the sun as she visited her lover Te Mata. Our proprietary blend of four varieties gives a true expression of our Gimblett Gravels Vineyard. The proportions of the blend change most vintages to reflect conditions of the year and to ensure that we meet a certain 'house style'. It is a wine of richness with an abundance of black fruit flavours and a long structured finish complete with dusty tannins of the area.