Mills Reef

Mills Reef Reserve Merlot Malbec Gimblett Gravels Hawke's Bay 2012 12.5%
Ripe, sweet and instensley fruity red and black fruits centering on dark cherry and plums with wild raspberry then brown spices of oak; moderate+ complexity, youthful and fresh.
On the palate - dry yet very fruity with flavors of tart and fresh black cherry, poached and fresh plums, wild raspberry and a little blackberry; The moderate alcohol works really well in this example; medium+ acidity and tannins with the tannins firm and youthful; medium+ length and a taut focused finish.
Delicious!
4.5 Stars

Mills Reef reserve Syrah Gimblett Gravels Hawke's Bay 2012 12.5%
Lots of varietal signature in the bouquet with dark, slightly broody red fruits of dark berries and wild raspberry, almost burnt raspberry; violets, a little dried herb and plenty - but not too much - oak spices then suggestions of a little black forest chocolate; medium+ complexity.
On the palate - dry and quite fruity and complex with the flavors of dark forest berries dipped in a little milk chocolate; savory broody notes with wild berries and oak spices; medium+ acidity, medium+ tannins; long finish; very well made example.
5 Stars