Category: | Red Wines |
Sub-Category: | Red Wines |
Producer: | Destiny Bay |
Label Name: | Magna Praemia (aged Release) |
Vintage: | 2015 |
Country: | New Zealand |
Region: | Waiheke Island, Auckland |
Volume: | 750ml |
ABV: | 14.4% |
Grape(s): | 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 3% Malbec, 3% Petit Verdot |
Acidity: | 3 |
Tannins: | 5 |
Sweetness: | 1 |
Body: | 5 |
Length: | 5 |
Aroma Intensity: | 5 |
Best Temperature: | 16-18°C |
Awards/Ratings
Notable scores: Bob Campbell MW 98/100 (2015); Wine Advocate (Robert Parker) 93/100 (2019 review). Frequently cited as one of New Zealand's top Cabernet blends
Tasting Note
Concentrated blackcurrant and dark-plum fruit with cassis, new leather, cigarbox, anise and graphite; vanilla/cacao from oak; vibrant acidity, dense fine tannins and a long savory finish.
Food Pairing
Western: grilled ribeye, roast lamb, braised beef short ribs, venison, rich stews and aged cheeses. Asian: Korean BBQ (bulgogi/galbi), Cantonese char siu, Peking duck, spicy Sichuan beef, Japanese wagyu yakiniku.
Production Method
Cabernet-dominant Bordeaux-style blend; pressed fractions included; matured ~10 months in 60% French / 40% American oak (≈40% new); minimally filtered and sealed with natural cork.
Vineyard Info
Destiny Bay is a boutique Waiheke Island estate (owner Mike Spratt) producing small-volume, premium Bordeaux-style blends with a Patron-club direct model and sustainability credentials.