• 2005 Mills Reef Merlot Malbec Reserve - New Zealand, North Island, Hawkes Bay (9/24/2008)
  Unscrewed and poured. Deep garnet hue. Aromas of black fruits (plum), earth, spice, hint of brown sugar. Nice presence on the palate, with an acidic vein that is certainly reminiscent of a high-elevation, Argentinean Malbec. However, the Merlot component of this wine certainly stands out at this time, with plum, burnt sugar, bay leaf, earth and other subtle complexities dancing around the palate. Malbec must help to bring out the deep color and spice elements and may become more of a feature as this wine ages. No matter how it's showing at present, this wine is a pleasure to drink. Yes, the acidity is high and tannins slightly astringent........but the core of fruit really shines through on the lengthy finish. New Zealand is an unheralded source of Bordeaux varietal-based blends........I could see a similar wine produced in CA selling for easily $35-$50+. I highly recommend this one. (90 pts.)

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