Mills Reef Merlot Malbec Reserve Gimblett Gravels Hawkes Bay 2014 – $$
Inky magenta, a gorgeous deep colour. 13.5% alc.
Lovely rich bouquet – boxwood, blackcurrants, leather, savoury. I could smell this all night.
Smooth richness of the Merlot gives a silky feel in the mouth, the grippy tannins from the Malbec provides balance. Black stonefruits predominate, a hint of raspberry, drying on the finish. Delicious.
A terrific, approachable wine for drinking now.
93 points