95/100 | Bob Campbell MW
93/100 'Excellent' | Cameron Douglas MS
We have long admired the work of winemaker Jason Stent and his Paritua vineyard team, who year after year punch out some of the very best (and best value) red wines from the Hawke's Bay region. Scarlet 2020 is a masterclass in affordable premium styled red wine. It is brimming with vibrant dark fruits with subtle oak and a long, balanced finish. If you're looking to spend around $20 on a bottle of Hawke's Bay red, you'll go a long way to do better than this.
Scarlet 2020 is a blend of merlot (56%), cabernet sauvignon (40%), and cabernet franc (4%).
Sam Kim, Wine Orbit writes "Seductively complex and enticing, the wine shows dark fruit richness, smoked game, vanillin oak, dried herb and potpourri aromas, leading to a powerfully concentrated palate delivering outstanding weight and depth. Wonderfully complemented by plush texture and layers of grainy tannins, finishing impressively long and velvety."
Cameron Douglas MS writes "Purple and ruby core hues and a pink-ish rim lead to a ripe, robust bouquet filled with scents of blackberry and blackcurrant, dark plum and iron. Aromas of toasty baking spices and violets, vanilla and a touch of clove add complexity. On the palate a delicious wine, dry with a firm texture from tannins and acidity, the core however is the fruit adding weight and intensity with flavours that mirror the bouquet. Lengthy, well made and still coming into balance - so needs some cellar time still. That said will be drinkable today with fresh protein dishes."
The winery writes "The palate shows dark fruits dominated by plum and blackberry with a full mid palate supported by firm, ripe tannins with a sumptuous finish. The oak influence is subtle and provides spicy notes and good structure."
Stock Level: | High |
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Vintage: | 2020 |
Volume: | 750ml |
Alcohol: | 14 |
Seal Type: | Screwcap |