2021 Paritua Red Gimblett Gravels, Hawke's Bay

Concentrated, dense sweet blackcurrant, olive and Black Doris plum wreathed in smoky oak. Chewy, bittersweet tannins and a plush, ripe palate of mid-weight savoury, almost salty flavours. Fair concentration and some interest indicating potential complexity on the back-palate. Closed and unyielding currently, this needs to relax and has enough fruit to develop in the mid-term. (Cork)

91 points Stephen Wong MW therealreview.com

From the famed Gimblett Gravels winegrowing district in Hawke’s Bay comes a red blend that reflects one of New Zealand’s most distinctive terroirs. The gravely riverbed soils of this historic site were formed by the wandering Ngaruroro River and today provide exceptional drainage and heat retention, ideal for Bordeaux varieties. Paritua was founded by Wellington entrepreneur Tony Rider, who established the vineyard in the early 2000s with the goal of producing premium wines from this remarkable landscape. Winemaker Jason Stent works with fruit grown on the stony vineyard blocks, crafting wines that combine richness with precision while allowing the character of the Gimblett Gravels to shine through.

The wine shows a deep crimson colour with dark purple tones. Aromas open with blackcurrant, plum and dark cherry layered with hints of cedar, dried herbs and subtle graphite. As the wine develops in the glass notes of cocoa, spice and a touch of tobacco leaf begin to emerge. The palate is generous yet structured, with smooth tannins supporting flavours of blackberry, cassis and dark plum framed by savoury spice and fine oak. The warm gravely soils lend depth and concentration while the maritime climate maintains freshness and balance.

The finish is long and polished, making this a superb partner for roasted lamb, grilled beef, slow braised short ribs or rich mushroom dishes. The wine will continue to develop complexity over the next ten to twelve years.