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