Overview
Merlot-Cabernet Sauvignon blends bring together Merlot's plum fruit and supple texture with Cabernet Sauvignon's blackcurrant character and firmer structure. Hawke's Bay examples range from approachable, fruit-led wines to concentrated, oak-matured reds suited to cellaring; the blend proportions vary by producer.
In The Glass
- Colour
- Medium ruby
- Nose
- Black plum, Blackcurrant, Black cherry, Cedar and Baking spice.
- Palate
- Structured Merlot-Cabernet Sauvignon with ripe dark fruit and savoury oak notes. Generally full-bodied, medium acidity, firm tannins, dry, with a long finish.
Tasting Profile
Body Full4/5
Tannins Firm4/5
Acidity Medium3/5
Sweetness Bone Dry1/5
Alcohol Medium3/5
Grapes
MerlotCabernet Sauvignon
Aromas And Notes
Black plumBlackcurrantBlack cherryCedarBaking spiceDried herbsTobaccoLeather
Terroir
Temperate maritime conditions, with warm summers moderated by coastal influences and cooler nights.
Alluvial gravelSandy loamSilt loam
Food Pairings
Roast beefLamb shoulderBeef stewAged Cheddar