The 2016 Ash Ridge Hawkes Bay Premium Cabernet Merlot is rich with spice, liquorice and blackcurrants, the palate is all black plums and cherries, with dark chocolate and a smokey char. A blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Merlot
Brand
Ash Ridge
Variety
Other Red Wine
Region
Hawke's Bay
Country
New Zealand
Size
750 ml
Alcohol
13.0 %
Food Pairing
This wine pairs perfectly with rich red meat dishes.
Dry → Sweet
10%
With an exception long settled autumn, Cabernet Sauvignon was exceptional in 2016. Left on the vine until late April, the Cabernet was harvested, destemmed and fermented in small open tops to maximise tannins and fruit extraction, with gentle twice daily plunging. Aged in a combination of American and French oak for 14 months, the Cabernet was blended with 20% Merlot to develop mid palate richness, but still allow Cabernet flavours to dominate. Sensory Evaluation: Colour: Deep Ruby. Aroma: Ripe dark berry fruit, toast and chocolate. Palate: Rich and dense with dark plum notes, cassis, vanilla, chocolate and liquorice.