2017 Hans Herzog Zweigelt

Zweigelt has its origins in Austria as a cross of two native varietals but is now the widest planted grape variety in Austria, popular for its soft forward fruit driven style but combines with a very deep dark cherry colour.

Transposed to Marlborough, New Zealand, the wine retains the Black Forest Gateaux appeal with notes of cocoa and cherry yet with enormous depth and resonance from 18 months in French oak (40% new).

Perhaps the most accessible to the four Hans Herzog red wines, but this wine is not a fading lily – it is another elegant beast that will evolve for another 3 to 5 years. Compelling and beautiful.

Tasting Note: A bouquet which simply jumps out at you before your mouth even hits the glass. A tastebud sensation between sweet and savoury – imagine a Black Forrest Gateau in bottle form. Exuding deep cherry and raspberry with a hint of liquorice and mulberry. Firmly textured but smooth, soft tannins, like the texture of dark chocolate – dry and opulent but not heavy. A flavour powerhouse and a highly complex wine with a great lively acidity, elegant structure and a lingering finish.

Origin: Marlborough, New Zealand

Blend: Zweigelt