This week's wine is the perfect match for any barbecued red meat. A warm, sunny region on New Zealand's North Island, Hawkes Bay is prime territory for Bordeaux grapes: the proof is in this impressive fruit-forward blend of Merlot (81%) and Cabernet (19%) from CJ Pask.
Tasting Note: Enticing aromas of ripe black plums, blackberries, blueberries and chocolate draw you into the glass. On the palate, there's loads of spicy red berries and plums, with a nice edge of tannins. Soft and easy-drinking in style, it's medium-bodied and mouthfilling with very good length.
Enjoy With: The ideal match for grilled meats, it will also make a great transition wine for cooler August nights. Try it with barbecued leg of lamb or a hearty beef stew.
Style: Dry, medium- to full-bodied red wine.
Terroir / Region: Located on the east coast of New Zealand's North Island, around the town of Napier, Hawkes Bay is one of NZ's older regions and one of its best. With the perfect balance of sheltering inland hills and maritime influence, it frequently records the country's highest sunshine hours. Chardonnay and Merlot are the most-planted grapes, and with the long, warm growing season, it's particularly known for its premium Bordeaux blends. Gimblett Gravels, where this wine's grapes are sourced, is the 800-hectare core of the region, ideal for the production of high-quality reds.
Producer: In the late 1970s, pilot Chris Pask flew over the hot, arid terrain of the old Ngaruroro riverbed and thought, "Grapes would do well here." The previously barren land is today the famed Gimblett Gravels region, whose first vines were planted by Pask. CJ Pask Winery has since grown from making tiny quantities sold at the cellar door to producing 50,000 cases each year, with a focus on sustainable grape-growing and environmental management. Award-winning winemaker Kate Radburnd's Roy's Hill line offers appealing, fruit-driven wines for everyday drinking.
Availability: 336 cases will be released officially on Saturday, August 7 in Vintages. But check the LCBO website, since some stores' shelves are already stocked. Look for it in the New Zealand section.
13.5% Alcohol/Vol. | 750 mL | #182048
Remember your reusable shopping bag & please enjoy responsibly.
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