Craggy Range, Hawkes Bay (New Zealand) Gimblett Gravels Vineyard “Te Kahu” 2009

($22, Kobrand):  Craggy Range specializes in making wines from grapes grown in a single vineyard to capture the uniqueness of place.  This one, their Bordeaux blend of Merlot (80%), Cabernet Franc (12%) Cabernet Sauvignon (5%) and Malbec, is a terrific argument for their philosophy.  They’ve captured black fruit flavors, earthy notes, and spice in the beautifully structure wine. It’s plush, yet not soft. It unfolds slowly in the glass.  Each sip reveals something new.  It’s a class act at a terrific price. 92 Michael Apstein Nov 15, 2011