2019 Puriri Hills Harmonie du Soir

Brand	Puriri Hills
Region	Auckland
Varietal	Merlot Cabernet Franc
Size	750ml
Alcohol %	12.8%
Vintage	2019
Country	New Zealand

Harmonie du Soir… like the pinnacle Pope… is only made in the finest vintages! Example 2009, 2010 (no 2011 & 2012 releases) … 2013, 2014, 2015 and now this stunning 2019. The only other NZ red I am aware of with such stringent vintage quality protocols was Esk Valley Terraces. Many wine aficionados and critics consider the Puriri Hills wines to be the best in the country, as do we. A red with genuine ‘cult’ status. Bob Campbell MW rated this wine 97/100 and the Fine Wine Delivery Co team agree 100%. Vineyard costs at Puriri Hills are circa 3 times that of other premium estates to manage. The exceptionally low yield fruit goes through a ruthless selection process before getting to the press. There are very few wines in New Zealand better than this and very likely none at this money – rich, smooth Merlot notes are bulked up by the Cabernet family with Malbec helping to bolster tannin and weight, the winemaking is gentle, considered, completed with minimal intervention… and the oak is as good as it gets. The wine is great upon release but will reward with 15+ years of careful cellaring. “Harmonie du Soir” means Evening Harmony in French… and trust us when we say everything is in harmony when you raise the glass to your lips and take your first sip.

Beautiful fragrances of wildflowers, graphite, olive tapenade, pipe tobacco, cedar, cassis, dried plum, leather, violet, soy... so much going on and so pure. A dead ringer for top Right Bank Bordeaux.

Succulent, supple and concentrated, with layers upon layers of generous dark fruits, fine tannins and bright, refreshing acidity. Just so pure and elegant with savoury nuances beginning to emerge now, but the freshness of the wine is remarkable and shows why Judy doesn't like to release her wines until they're ready. This 2019 Puriri Hills Reserve will be seriously long-lived. Savour now through 2030 (and likely beyond). Plan an exceptional meal with the most appreciative company around every bottle you open.