Extremely bright in appearance with developing golden hues
Quite a rich and developing bouquet that is both savory and complex - all the hallmarks of Sauvignon Blanc are on show but each with a toasty and savory edge - the oak - is just enough; medium+ complexity overall.
On the palate - dry, wild and complex - the wild ferment flavors punch through supported by oak spices and savory complexity; the fruit signature of Sauvignon Blanc remains with citrus and stone fruit suggestions; lovely balance and finish. Buy!
5 Stars
Sacred Hill 'Virgin' Chardonnay 2013 Hawke's Bay 12.5%
Floral, gently fruity, hints of indigenous ferment with a subtle savory complexity and 'pure' in its fruit expressions. Overall an elegant and sophisticated bouquet.
The palate follows through with white Spring flowers, a light cheese-rind note and a taut attention seeking acid grip; white peach and crisp red apple keep the Chardonnay message in tact along with a long gentle finish. A wine that will stand the test of time and should be decanted if opened today
5 Stars (90 Points)
Sacred Hill 'Brokenstone' 2011 Hawke's Bay 14%
Floral, gently fruity, hints of indigenous ferment with a subtle savory complexity and 'pure' in its fruit expressions. Overall an elegant and sophisticated bouquet.
The palate follows through with white Spring flowers, a light cheese-rind note and a taut attention seeking acid grip; white peach and crisp red apple keep the Chardonnay message in tact along with a long gentle finish. A wine that will stand the test of time and should be decanted if opened today
5 Stars (90 Points)
Sacred Hill 'Brokenstone' 2011 Hawke's Bay 14%
Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon/Syrah/Malbec
The super-ruby core and fuschia rim suggest a much younger wine - aromas of ripe dark berries and wild berry pie; toasty oak overtones and pepper spices.
On the palate - dry with medium+ tannins from oak and ripe fruit maceration; flavors of dark berries remain laced with vanilla and toasty savory theme; big tannins that need time to integrate fully; balanced with a long finish. A wine very much in its development stage - if you must open it then decant and sit for the day first.
4.5 Stars
Sacred Hill 'Helmsman' 2011 Hawke's Bay 14%
Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot/Cabernet Franc
Now we're talking - an immediately complex bouquet of a wine that has aromas of harmony and integration; ripe - highly scented Cabernet Sauvignon commands the nose with the softer side of Merlot flanking left and right; the Cabernet Franc is however the star in this blend - with a savory, coffee bean and bitter chocolate signature.
On the palate - a rock star wine with all the flavors and texture you need in a blend that represents the best of Hawke's Bay; the oak is obvious yet luxurious and necessary. Powerful tannins; A long finish and a wine that can be enjoyed now and into 2020.
5 Stars (95 Points)
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