Sacred Hill Basket Press Merlot 2006

Natalie's Review

Sacred Hill Basket Press Merlot 2006, Hawkes Bay, North Island, New Zealand: Vintages Wine Panel: Sacred Hill strikes the perfect balance between winemaking tradition and innovation. Over the last two decades, they have used time-honored techniques to handcraft exceptional wines all the while leading the industry with many environmental initiatives. Winemaker Tony Bish employed the traditional, hand operated basket press to gently coax from the grapes the full flavors of this supple Merlot. A rich, plummy nose leads to a deep yet softly textured wine layered with ripe black fruit flavors and supported by gentle tannins. My note: New Zealand is doing a great job with reds other than pinot. The cool climate means the wines are balanced but still achieve great depth of flavor.  60087  13%  D  750 mL  $20.95  Score: 89/100. May 24, 2008  Full Review