Category:
 
Red Wines
Sub-Category:  
 
Red Wines
Producer:
 
Destiny Bay
Label Name:
 
Magna Praemia
Vintage:
 
2020
Country:
 
New Zealand
Region:
 
Waiheke Island (Auckland)
Volume:
 
750ml
ABV:
 
14.4%
Grape(s):
 
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
Method:
 
Cabernet-dominant blend from deep press and free-run fractions; fermented by parcel and matured ~12 months in 55% French / 45% American oak (50% new, 50% 1–2 year), estate bottled (~730 cases).
Acidity:
 
4
Tannins:
 
5
Sweetness:
 
1
Body:
 
5
Length:
 
5
Aroma Intensity:
 
5
Best Temperature:
 
16-18
Tasting Note:
 
Powerful Cabernet-led blend with concentrated blackcurrant, blackberry and dark cherry, layers of cigar box, tobacco, graphite, violets and dark chocolate; refined oak, firm ripe tannins and a long, focused finish.
Food Pairing:
 
Western: grilled ribeye, roast lamb, venison, aged cheddar; Asian: Korean BBQ (galbi), Cantonese char siu, Peking duck, Szechuan beef.
Vineyard Info:
 
Boutique, family-owned single-estate on Waiheke Island, established 2000 and run by the Spratt family. Small-production, Bordeaux-style Cabernet blends; early adopter of Sustainable Winegrowing NZ practices.
Awards/Ratings:
 
James Suckling 99/100 (Top 100; #1 Cabernet of New Zealand), Cameron Douglas 97/100; strong historical ratings from Bob Campbell MW and high marks from The Wine Advocate