Destiny Bay Magna Praemia 2015

Accolades:
98/100 – Bob Campbell MW
93/100 – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

“New Zealand’s most expensive wine? Very intense, rich and complex cabernet sauvignon-dominant red with dark-fleshed plum, blackcurrant, cassis, new leather, anise and a strong influence of spicy oak. A wine that’s clearly been built to last, although I find it easier to read than the mid-range Mystae. A true thoroughbred. (74% cabernet sauvignon, 15% merlot, 5% cabernet franc, 3% malbec and 3% petit verdot).” – Bob Campbell MW

“A blend of 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 3% Malbec and 3% Petit Verdot, I suspect the 2015 Magna Praemia is the best wine produced to date at this micro estate. Aged in a combination of French and American oak (40% new), it’s cedary on the nose, but actually less so than the other wines, with deep scents of cassis seasoned with hints of vanilla. Full-bodied and supple, it’s plush and creamy in texture on the palate, adding chocolate and velvety notes on the finish.” – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

Tasting Note: Vibrant, youthful and deeply coloured in the glass, the nose is an explosion of smashed blackberries and cherry notes with subtle hints of lavender and thyme lying under the surface. The first taste delivers the rich and generous berry qualities indicated by the aromatics and has fresh acidity supporting the fore/mid-palates while the oak is subtle and restrained in the shadow of the overall concentration. On further exploration, the aromatics express Cabernet Franc’s characteristic musk, followed by graphite, and hints of vanilla/caramel. With a long finish, licorice and tobacco leaf notes, this wine will certainly unlock its true potential in the cellar for decades to come.

Alcohol: 14.4%

Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon blend

Region: Waiheke Island, New Zealand