Fruit is taken from the Cornerstone vineyard, planted in 1996 in the Gimblett Gravels, which make this a Hawkes Bay wine. Fifteen months in 40% new French oak, this barrel selection wine is a mere 400 case production of what Esk Valley does. Aromas of stony/mineral, blueberry, black raspberry and floral lead to a palate that’s big on complexity. Things kick off with that stony/mineral aspect, while some earthiness creeps up on the finish – plus the addition of drying tannins, floral, black raspberry and plum on the finish. Totally enthralled by this wine, can’t wait to try it in 7+ years.
Rating: **** ½+