Te Rakau, Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon, Hawke's Bay, 2015

The Hawke's Bay region of New Zealand's North Island has developed a world-class reputation for its Bordeaux-style blends, made up of the classic Bordeaux varieties. This example is predominantly Merlot for a plush, chocolatey character, while the two Cabernets lend cassis and blackberry notes to the mix. There is also a hint of tobacco which harks back to the wines of Bordeaux. Ripe tannins provide some structure, enabling this wine to stand up to big flavours such as hearty winter stews.