Mills Reef Merlot - Malbec 2005

"The wine that I admired the most was actually lower down the range, for the 2005 Merlot/Malbec (tank fermented, cold soaked for ten days) was medium-bodied with good acidity, satin-textured tannins, ebullient ripe red fruits with that signature plush finish but with more expression and elegance."
-Wine Advocate

The grapes for this fine wine were selected from our two Gimblett Gravels vineyards located in the stony soils and warmer inland area of Hawkes Bay, with an enviable reputation for producing some of New Zealand's finest Bordeaux reds. The two varieties comprising this blend, Merlot and Malbec, were harvested in several parcels during mid-April at ideal ripeness and flavour profile.The grapes were destemmed and tank fermented, followed by full malolactic fermentation and seperate aging of each parcel in one and two year old oak barriques for twelve months, with regular lees stirring for enhanced complexity. Selected parcels were then carefully blended to achieve a seamless style with optimal aroma and palate expression (51% Merlot, 49% Malbec).

This darkly coloured red offers intense and fragrant aromas of violets, luscious plum, blackcurrant and blackberry, beautifully integrated with toffee and forest floor undertones. Concentrated flavours entice the palate with a medley of ripe blackcurrant, blueberry and blackberry fruits, complemented with a silky smooth texture, fine tannins and finely balanced oak seasoning. The length is long and lingering with a gentle dry finish.