Hans Herzog
Spirit of Marlborough 2018 750ml

95/100 by James Suckling  

Released not in haste, but at its moment of harmony, this certified organic, estate-grown Cabernet blend has been matured for 30 months in French barriques and a further five years in bottle, emerging fully resolved, layered, and composed. While it belongs firmly among the most recognised Cabernet blends of New Zealand, Spirit of Marlborough 2018 is defined by a stylistic alignment closer to classical Bordeaux, favouring restraint, fine structure, and vibrant healthy fruit over overt ripeness or dominant oak expression. A reflection of its provenance and patient élevage, it takes its rightful place as a mature, age-worthy Cabernet blend of Grand Cru calibre.

Vintage 2018

A perfect long, dry growing season with extremely high sunshine hours ripened the low yield of our Bordeaux varieties to perfection. We handpicked incredible small but flavourful and healthy grapes at full physiological ripeness.

Hans' Winemaking Notes  

With perfectly healthy, destemmed grapes, our artisan winemaking begins with a long cold soak to extract flavours and antioxidants from the skins. After a cool 'wild' yeast fermentation and extended post-maceration, the wine matures for 30 months in partly new French Barriques, fostering richness and complexity. Bottle-aged in our cellar for a further 5 years. No fining, no filtration, just pure natural goodness.