The River Gravel from Esk Valley is an exceptional expression of Hawke's Bay terroir, crafted in the heart of New Zealand's celebrated Gimblett Gravels. Renowned for its premium quality and beautifully balanced characters, this distinctive wine is created from hand-harvested grapes and showcases Esk Valley's dedication to traditional winemaking and sustainable vineyard practices. This is a vibrant and complex wine that captures the essence of its unique gravelly soils, making it a standout choice for discerning wine lovers seeking depth and elegance in every glass.
Tasting Notes
Appearance:
The River Gravel presents a brilliant, deep garnet hue with striking ruby reflections, demonstrating impressive clarity and vibrancy in the glass.
Nose:
The nose is lifted and enticing, bursting with aromas of ripe dark berries, black cherries, and plums, interwoven with subtle notes of violet. Hints of liquorice, fine cedar, crushed herbs, and delicate toasted oak add complexity, while underlying minerality brings freshness and poise.
Palate:
On the palate, this wine exudes remarkable structure and finesse. Juicy flavours of blackberry, dark cherry, and mulberry unfold with layers of sweet spice, mocha, and savoury earthiness. The finely grained tannins lend an elegant texture, allowing the wine to move gracefully across the palate. Subtle nuances of graphite and dark chocolate provide further intrigue, all beautifully balanced by bright acidity and a core of plush, ripe fruit.
Finish:
The finish is long and harmonious, leaving lingering notes of black fruit, spice, and a gentle, savoury minerality. A touch of oak subtly frames the finish, ensuring each sip is both satisfying and memorable. With its depth, elegance and refined complexity, The River Gravel Esk Valley is a superb example of Hawke's Bay craftsmanship, perfect for pairing with roasted meats, game, or hard cheeses.