Ash Ridge Wines

Ash Ridge Wines Premium Estate Syrah 2015 Hawke's Bay
A lovely bouquet and quite engaging with aromas of dark berries and spice; black currant and some blueberry, a meaty quality enhanced by some black pepper scents; an obvious oak layer. On the palate - dry, firm textures, fruity reflecting the dark berries and black currant; quite toasty, nice back bone of acidity. Overall balanced and well made. Drink now and through 2021.
88 Points

Ash Ridge Wines Vintner's Reserve Syrah 2015 Hawke's Bay
An engaging bouquet of smoke, toast, dark berry fruits and soft peppery spice; layers of dark berries then oak with some chocolate and dark brown spice notes, perhaps a hint of coffee spice. On the palate - dry and textured with plenty of acidity and tannins that are still finding harmony with the other attributes; flavours of aged meat and dark berry fruits, firm to fine tannins and plenty of acidity; lengthy finish; drink now if decanted and through 2024. One to watch.
91 Points

Ash Ridge Wines Premium Cabernet Franc 2015 Hawke's Bay
Masculine and engaging bouquet of dark berries laced with bitter chocolate and old violets; a mix of earthy tones and toasty oak add complexity and intrigue. On the palate - dry and firm(ish) with medium to fine tannins, youthful acid line and darker red berry fruit flavours, a chocolate and toasty wood quality returns. A decent drinking dry red wine that will respond well to a range of darker red meat dishes and earthy flavoured fresh pasta with cream. Overall a nice example.
87 Points