This dark, distinguished single vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon was made from grapes exclusively grown on low-yielding vines in our Mills Reef Trust Vineyard, located on the corner of Mere Road and SH50 in the prestigious Gimblett Gravels of Hawke’s Bay.

The grapes were handpicked at ideal physiological ripeness (22.3° Brix) on 12th April, destemmed on arrival, retaining whole berries and cold-soaked for five days. Fermentation ensued in open top fermenters (plunged twice daily), with a portion allowed wild fermentation in integrale 400L barrels (rotated twice daily) followed by a post-ferment maceration for 15 days.

The wine was pressed off skins and transferred to barrel for 15 months. aging in 80% French, 20% American oak, of which 33% was new wood The wine finally received a light egg-white fining and was cross flow filtered prior to bottling under screwcap on 16th September 2014.

This stunning Cabernet Sauvignon exudes distinct classical blackcurrant character, with complex layers of sweet berry fruit, caramel and chocolate, interwoven within an unctuous texture. Beautifully integrated oak and fine round tannins complete the finishing touches to this delicious wine. Enjoyable immediately, it will also cellar magnificently.