The fruit for these wines are sourced predominantly from vineyards located across the Hawkes Bay region. An array of soil profiles combined with high sunshine hours and low rainfall makes the Hawkes Bay New Zealand’s ‘home’ to the French Bordeaux varieties Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Cabernet Franc. A significant portion of the grapes are grown in Villa Maria’s vineyards in close proximity to Gimblett Road. The free draining gravelly soil here has a devigourating affect on vines and results in red wines with enhanced structure, flavour and colour. SERVING SUGGESTION This wine has fine grained soft tannins and good length, making it a perfect match for a variety of red meats and cheeses.