I was gob-smacked by the quality of the barrel sample of Hans’s debut 2008 Zweigelt. Very pure on the nose with black cherry cheesecake springing immediately to mind. Good definition. The palate is medium-bodied with very fine tannins, good acidity and purity. Lovely caressing mouthfeel, sharp dark cherries towards the finish that linger with temptation. This works really well with blueberries coming through on the aftertaste. For a first vintage: bravo. The cost listed includes mail order and freightN.B. Please note that these wines are sold as “Hans Family Estate” in all countries except Australia and New Zealand where it goes under the name of “Hans Herzog Estate.” If you seek enlightenment upon New Zealand’s take on international grape varieties then an afternoon with Swiss-born Hanz Herzog should quench your thirst. These are fascinating wines produced in small quantities and although they can be “hit and miss” affairs, the hits are well worth seeking out and kudos to someone who is thinking ‘outside the box’. After all, how do you know that Zweigelt will not work in Marlborough unless you actually cultivate and bottle it? Note that these wines will simply be branded “Hans” in the USA.Importer: Bond Imports, Inc., Littleton, CO; tel. (303) 948-3712; fax (866) 801-3618; www.winehouse.com