The 2007 The Quarry Cabernet Sauvignon is a limited release of around 200-300 cases per year with a touch of Malbec and Cabernet Franc. The nose is very intense with broody black fruits, cedar a touch of savory fruit, which I assume comes from the Cabernet Franc (even though there is only 2-3% in the blend!) The palate is full-bodied with pure black fruits, a touch of pain grille, iodine, cedar and sous-bois. Great precision and length, again quite sensuous on the finish – not a wine that wants to overwhelm, but rather seduces with its power. Wonderful. Drink from 5-15 years.
Craggy Range continue to press forward with their ambitious plans and are rapidly becoming one of the most familiar New Zealand producers both at an entry-level, having successfully penetrated the competitive supermarket shelves in the UK, but also winning plaudits for their array of flagship bottlings such as Le Sol, Sophia and The Quarry. I concentrated on new releases but re-tasted some of the Pinot Noirs that I felt have improved significantly.
Importer: Kobrand Corporation, Purchase, NY; tel. (914) 253-7700