Trinity Hill, Gimblett Gravels (Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand) 2014

 Every so often, a wine captures one’s senses with a combination of fruit expression, texture, aromatic and flavor complexity that is truly memorable.  The Gimblett from Trinity Hill is a blend of Bordeaux varieties that is a beautiful expression of its site and its winemaking heritage.  Deep in color, it has a bouquet of blackberry and black currant fruits backed by elements of vanilla, fresh herbs, flowers and subtle spices.  On the palate, it shows a beautifully balanced array of flavors.  Blackcurrant, blackberry and black cherry fruits are interwoven with nuances of vanilla, baking spice, herbs, graphite and vanilla.  The texture is silky and elegant, the balance of fruit and oak is impeccable and the finish is long and lively.  Delicious now, it will cellar well for a decade and beyond.  A blend of  Cabernet Franc (49%), Cabernet Sauvignon (39%), Merlot (9%) and Malbec (3%).