Region: Hawke's Bay, NZ
Vineyard Appellation: Gimblett Gravels, Hawke’s Bay
Vineyards: 94% Gimblett Stones/6% Gimblett Estate
Gimblett Gravels 'The Gimblett' 2019
Since 2005, “The Gimblett” has typically been a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec, in varying proportions, depending on the strengths of the vintage. Thanks to a warm growing season, the 2019 release is made almost entirely from the Cabernet family.
$39.99
Vineyards
Varietal Mix
54% Cabernet Sauvignon
43% Cabernet Franc
3% Tempranillo
Harvest Detail
Picked: 28th March to 11th April
Bottling Detail
Alc./Vol: 13.5%
TA: 6.3 g/L
pH: 3.89
RS: 0.44 g/L
Winemaking & Viticulture
Each variety was hand harvested from individual blocks in two distinct vineyards, de-stemmed and fermented separately. All parcels were either hand plunged twice or pumped over once daily to aid optimum colour and tannin extraction. Total time on skins (including post-fermentation maceration) ranged from 14 to 29 days, which helped improve the texture of the tannins while softening and stabilising the individual wines.
Each parcel was matured either in new or seasoned 225-litre French oak barriques for 20 months before being blended and bottled in February and March 2021, respectively. The percentage of new oak in the final blend was 53%.
The Wine
The sophistication and refinement of Cabernet Sauvignon is complimented by the beauty and perfume of Cabernet Franc.
A youthful, deep purple/ruby red colour and an enticing violet fragrance introduce aromas of blackcurrants and blackberries along with hints of bramble, cedar, liquorice, and toast.
Ripe blackcurrant/blackberry flavours, savoury oak, fine-grained tannins, and juicy acidity combine to produce a supple, textural palate that glides effortlessly to a long and succulent finish.
A stylish “The Gimblett” that will only get better with time. Drink from 2022 to 2037. Decant before serving.