Date of Tasting: 13 March 2015
Wine Type: Red
Grape Varieties: 89% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Malbec, 1% Cabernet Franc
Alcohol: 14.5%
Origin: Hawkes Bay, New Zealand
Appellation: Gimblett Gravels
Expect to Pay: ~ EUR60
Web: http://www.craggyrange.com/Chubby Appreciation: 95/100
Professional Rating: WA - 94/100, CT - 94/100
Appearance: Opulent garnet
Aroma: Persistent aroma of dark berries, spices, and floral
Palate: Firm and tannic kind of style with big bodied but yet subtlety. Sweet blackcurrant and cassis bursting out at the first sip. Rich and smooth texture. Vibrant acidity balanced the picture well. Apparent toasty oaky feel.
Pretty nice bottle of Merlot based wine in its own style. Rich in fruit. Elegant despite power. Somewhat fabulous with oakiness that did not overwhelm. It might, however, be a little plain for those who look for multi dimensions structure. Well, it is wonderful now for drinking. I enjoyed it with nice piece of medium-rare rib eye. Red meat dish that is not too complex should pair well. Cheers!!!
