Trinity Hill Hawkes Bay Merlot 2024

Trinity Hill Hawke's Bay Merlot is a rich, supple Merlot grown on the stony soils of the Gimblett Gravels. Black Doris plum, blackberry and blueberry meet violet, toasted nuts, chocolate and gentle oak spice, with a plump mouthfeel balanced by fine tannins and fresh acidity. Seven months in stainless steel and small French oak barrels adds complexity while keeping the ripe fruit firmly at the centre. Generous and immediately approachable, it is an excellent match for lamb, beef and other richly flavoured dishes.

What the winery says:

Chocolate, plum, and blackberry aromas of Merlot have combined with the aromatic spice of oak aging to produce a fruit-dominant yet complex wine. Soft, ripe tannins make this wine serious yet eminently drinkable. Individual parcels were destemmed before fermentation, leaving a high proportion of whole berries, with gentle daily pumping over used to build a soft, complex structure. The wine was aged for seven months in stainless steel tanks and small French oak barrels before blending.

What the experts say:

Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, 93/100 & 5 Stars (2024 Vintage)
"Gorgeously ripe and inviting, the fragrant bouquet shows Black Doris plum, blueberry, rich floral, subtle spice, and toasted nut aromas. The palate displays excellent weight and plump mouthfeel, wonderfully framed by silky texture and finely infused tannins. Sturdy and supple at once with a sustained, satisfying finish."

Cameron Douglas MS, 92/100 (2024 Vintage)
"An excellent bouquet and palate with scents and flavours of violets and baked Doris plums, fresh boysenberry and fruit spices then a layer of wood smoke. Firm and dry on the palate with textures from tannins and plenty of acidity for length and to carry the fruit messages. Medium length and finish with best drinking from late 2025 through 2029+."