The Real Review, headed up by Bob Campbell MW and Huon Hooke, is one of the leading authorities when it comes to the Antipodean wines. So, when they announced Puriri Hills the New Zealand Winery of the Year 2020, the world took notice. Puriri Hills Estate Red is something a little bit different from New Zealand. This summery red is an intriguing blend of Merlot, Carmenère, Cabernet Franc and Malbec from Clevedon, overlooking the Hauraki Gulf in Southeast Auckland. Aged in French oak for 22 months, it's complex with red fruits, violet, dried herbs, cedar and a plethora of spices. Although it has immense cellaring potential, we're not sure it will last very long because we'll probably drink it all with barbeques over the summer months. That 12.7% ABV has al fresco dining written all over it. The organic and biodynamic Puriri Hills was established in 1996. Although originally inspired by the great Bordeaux blends of Saint-Émilion and Pomerol, this innovative 2.5-hectare estate has become a unique proposition, combining forgotten grape varieties and a terroir like no other.£5.13 per 100.00ml