SMALL PARCEL WINES FROM ONE OF HAWKES BAY'S GREATEST WINEMAKING TALENTS.
93/100 | Bob Campbell MW
Rod Easthope forged his reputation during his years as Head Winemaker at Craggy Range. These days his focus is on Easthope Winegrowers where he makes small parcel wines of the very highest calibre. The ethos behind Easthope's wines is to put the work in to the vineyard and let the quality of fruit speak for itself - and they have more than achieved that goal.
There are only 5 hectares of gamay planted in the whole of New Zealand (compared with 5000 hectares of Pinot Noir) so this is a rare treat. This gamay was produced using the artisanal techniques of fermenting handpicked whole bunches and traditional foot stomping, followed by maturation in a combination of seasoned oak puncheons and stone egg tanks. The resulting wine is floral and fruity with a mineral-like line of savoury tannin. This wine can be cellared for up to seven years, or enjoyed now, lightly chilled if you wish. We're smitten.
The winery writes "The dark colour hints at the concentration resulting from a superb vintage. Aromas of plum, tar, rose and spice abound. On the palate uncommon power and structure frame abundant fruit, leading to a long finish."
Stock Level: | Limited |
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Vintage: | 2021 |
Volume: | 750ML |
Alcohol: | 13 |
Seal Type: | Screwcap |