Esk Valley Artisanal Malbec Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon

New Zealand, Hawkes Bay, Gimblett Gravels
Bottle
Ratings
DWWA 92 · JR 17/20
Identity
Producer Esk Valley
Year 2020
Vol 0.75
Classification Artisanal Collection, premium boutique wine
Grapes 40% Malbec, 30% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc
Color Red
Sweetness Dry
Tasting
Color Desc deep crimson
Aroma plum, jammy fruits, tobacco, dried herbs, dark berry, chinotto, inky dark chocolate, herb garden notes
Palate powerful, concentrated, medley of rich fruit flavors, dried herbs, silky texture, firm tannins, medium+ acidity, balanced tannin structure
Finish enthralling, long, rich, silky, balanced
Food Pairing roast lamb, grilled beef, game meats, mature cheddar cheese, mushroom risotto
Serving Temp 16-18°C
Aging Potential 5-10 years
Profile
Acidity (1-5)
AVERAGE
Body (1-5)
HIGHER THAN AVERAGE
Aroma (1-5)
HIGHER THAN AVERAGE
Astringency (1-5)
LOWER THAN AVERAGE
Minerality (1-5)
LOW
Enology
ABV % 14.0
Sugar (g/l) 1.00
Aging Process 12 months in French oak barriques, 50% new oak
Fermentation open top concrete fermenters, hand plunged
Terroir
Soil Deep stony soils of the Gimblett Gravels
Harvest Type manual
Harvest Desc Hand-picked grapes from Gimblett Gravels vineyards
Interesting facts
Part of Esk Valley's Artisanal Collection showcasing Gimblett Gravels terroir with winemaker Gordon Russell's craftsmanship
Logistics
Cork screw cap