Sophia 2024

Craggy Range, tasting note (craggyrange.com – linket fra craggyrange.com, hentet 2026-10-19): 2024 Craggy Range Sophia – område: Hawke's Bay; druer: Merlot 79%, Cabernet Franc 14%, Cabernet Sauvignon 7%; alkohol 14.5%. Producentens noter (engelsk): 2024 Sophia GIMBLETT GRAVELS, HAWKE’S BAY Sophia, the height of elegance and longevity, predominantly showcases Merlot, complemented by Cabernet Franc and a portion of Cabernet Sauvignon. Crafted at our Giants winery, Sophia embodies opulence and ripe flavours with a tannin structure supporting extensive ageing. With vines now over 25 years old, our distinct Merlot blocks contribute aromatic elegance and plush power. Evolving winemaking techniques yield depth and balance with silk-laden tannins accentuated by elevated perfume. TASTING NOTE 79% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon Aromas of blackcurrant, plum and violet with hints of cedar and cocoa. The palate is powerfully concentrated, medium to full-bodied, showing a plush Merlot core framed by Cabernet structure. Intense blue fruits and dried floral notes are present, and tannins are prominent yet chalky, ripe and long. A Sophia of poise and authority, where power is shaped by restraint, and elegance defines its expression. WINEMAKING A cool, late winter delayed budbreak, followed by a mild, wind-influenced spring that naturally moderated yields. A warm, dry summer allowed for extended hangtime, resulting in an exceptional season of both concentration and freshness. Merlot from Block 24 (clone 481) was hand-harvested, setting the foundation for Sophia, with both Cabernet components following as they reached optimal ripeness. Each parcel was meticulously bunch-sorted, then berry-sorted, retaining whole berries before being gently transferred to closed-top French oak cuves. Fermentation proceeded over 21-23 days at our purpose-built Sophia winery. Each block was matured separately in French oak, preserving the individuality of each component. The final blend was returned to oak for a further 6 months of maturation before being bottled in October 2025. ALCOHOL 14.5 PH 3.64 ACIDITY 5.91 g/l 2024