Top of the Top

Gourmet Traveller Wines’ “100 Top New Release Wines” for June July this year had Puriri Hills ranking high at Number one, two and six on the list of New Zealand red wines. We’re pretty happy with that! The NZ wines were reviewed by Bob Campbell MW and here’s what he had to say.

99 - 5 Stars - 2013 Puriri Hills Pope, Clevedon, NZ$215 

A blend of merlot, carménère, cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon and malbec from an outstanding vintage. Complex, elegant wine with an impressive depth of dark berry, floral/violet, spice and subtle savoury/dried herb notes. A wonderful demonstration of power. 

97 - 5 Stars - 2013 Puriri Hills Harmonie du Soir, Clevedon, NZ$120 

This blend of merlot, cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc and malbec sits between the entry level and flagship labels. Firmly structured wine with berry, floral and spice flavours. It has evolved nicely since I first tasted it a year ago and is a good prospect for the cellar. 

96 - 5 Stars - 2013 Puriri Hills Estate, Clevedon, NZ$55

A blend of merlot, cabernet sauvignon, malbec and cabernet franc. Ripe, elegant red with an array of subtle fruit flavours interwoven with hints of cedar and spicy oak. Restrained Bordeaux-like red that I find very appealing. Good now, better later.