When most of us think about wine from New Zealand, we think about the zingy Sauvignon Blancs from Marlborough or the Pinot Noirs from Martinborough or Central Otago, but an small area called Gimblett Gravels, in Hawkes Bay on New Zealand’s North Island, produces amazing Bordeaux Varieties.    The weather hear is warm, and the maritime influence that plays such an important role in most of the rest of New Zealand is mitigated by mountains.  There is also a gravelly soil (hence the name) that retains daytime heat and helps with drainage, further encouraging ripe wines.  See the map below for a better idea of where Hawke’s Bay, and Mills Reef,  lie in relation to the rest of New Zealand.  Click on this link to see a map of  Hawkes Bay with Mills Reef Vineyards marked

Mills Reef is a family owned winery (there is also a restaurant) and father Paddy, and son Tim Preston are the primary winemakers.  They receive frequent awards, and Mills Reef is recognized as one of the premier producers of Gimblet Gravels wines.

Mills Reef Reserve Merlot Malbec consists of 55% Merlot and 45% Malbec, aged for 7 months in a combination of new and one year old oak that is both French and American.  Rich dark fruit, savory spices, and hints of olive and oak contribute to a complex, smooth wine with great balance and character.  Try this with roasted chicken, braised beef, flank steak, and roasted pepper dishes.  Drink now – 2012