REVIEW
Thomas Waiheke Island Cabernet Franc/Merlot 2014
Blended Red from New Zealand – Northland & Auckland
Review Date - 05-Jul-2017
   
18-/20
Dark, deep, purple-hued black-red colour, a little lighter
on the rim. The nose is full and softly
voluminous with aromas of ripe redcurrants and blackcurrants, along with herb
notes, forming a dense, well-packed core which unveils nuances of spice, earth
and hints of nutty oak. Full-bodied, the
palate has a rich and sweet core of ripe redcurrant and blackcurrant fruit entwined
with dark plums, forming a dense, integrated heart. Nuances of dark herbs, a little spice and earthy
hints add detail. The fruit is supported
by moderately extracted, grainy tannin structure, with subtle lacy acidity
lending energy and tension. The palate
has an attractive, even mouthfeel and presence, and flows to a rich, full,
lingering finish of currants and herbs.
This is a rich, sweet fruited Cabernet Franc/Merlot blend with good
depth and concentration supported by grainy structure and fresh acidity. Match with roast lamb, beef and venison
dishes over the next 6-9 years. A blend
of 48% Cabernet Franc, 45% Merlot 4% Syrah and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon, from
Onetangi, hand-picked and fermented to 14.5% alc., the wine aged 15 months in
26% new French oak barriques. 2,096
bottles made. 18.0-/20 Jul 2017
RRP $46.00
|