Vidal Reserve Gimblett Gravels Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 $19 ★★★★½
The gold medals are already swinging off the neck of this wine crafted by the ridiculously talented Hugh Crichton. A blend of 57 % merlot, 35% cabernet sauvignon, 7% malbec and 1% cabernet franc, this wine hits that sweet spot between delivering muscular, meaty, dark complexity alongside up-front, approachable berryfruit, spices, cocoa and leather characters on the finish. There’s a lot going on in this wine and it’ll definitely last the distance so buy now before they put the price up. www.vidal.co.nz
