The ‘Blanket Hills' label is one of brands belonging to the ever-busy winemaker and consultant Rod McDonald. The wines share the commonality of being "bigger, more voluptuous, and unashamedly comfortable and generous”. Those who have consumed the ‘Slow Burn' Chardonnay 2010 will know what Rod is trying to achieve. His latest release under ‘Blanket Hills' is a Syrah 2011, and the style aimed at is that of St Joseph from the Rhone, with its complexity and weight. ‘Blanket Hills' refers to the Hawke's Bay hills that remind Rod of the look of crumpled blankets on a giant unmade bed. www.rmwines.co.nz