2020 Rod McDonald Quarter Acre Syrah

93 Points Richard Caro
In stock
Star winemaker Rod McDonald is getting increasing recognition for his various labels, but this Quarter Acre sits at an amazing sweet spot of quality-for-value. The fully destemmed grapes were sourced in 'unyeildingly hot' and free-draining sites in Hawkes Bay – with a hillside bringing elevated and richer soils while and old dry river bed gives sun-baked fruit appeal. A former trophy winner at less than $30, this is a deep and finely structured, truly superb wine for the price.
$37.99 in mixed 6+ or $42.99 per bottle

Grape

Syrah

Its Origins

Rod McDonald earned his chops over thirteen years in Hawkes Bay, nine of them with Villa Maria’s Vidal’s Estate. On the back of winning New Zealand Winemaker of the Year in 2006 Rod went out on his own, consulting for other wineries and starting his own somewhat rambling portfolio of brands, most of which are gaining significant recognition in their respective categories. The ‘Te Awanga’ range is sourced from the ‘home’ vineyards, located at the cellar door site. ‘Quarter Acre’ is a step up into single vineyard wines exploring sub-regional terroir. ‘Two Gates’ offers organic but exceptionally elegant examples of Hawkes bay classics. The ‘One Off’ range is a one-size fits all for anything else Rod wants to make - many of which are so good that this ‘non-brand’ threatens to outshine the others. With beautiful wine styling as well as obvious advantages in sourcing quality juice, the confidence and swagger of Rod McDonald wines seems to be nothing if not justified.

What The Critics Say

93/100 Bob Campbell MW (2019 vintage)

"Attractively aromatic syrah with ripe berry, black pepper, violet and spicy oak flavours. Crisp, high-energy, fruit-focused wine that is surprisingly accessible now but should mellow nicely in the medium-term. 23 APR 2021." Drink 2021 - 2027

Formerly a Gold and multiple Trophy winner, IWC International Wine Challenge 2017

Winner of 4 Trophies including the International Syrah Trophy, Hawkes Bay Syrah Trophy, New Zealand Syrah Trophy and New Zealand Red Trophy. "A perfumed nose of sandalwood and lavender, edged with aromatic white pepper and brimming with ripe red and black cherry and ripe damson. The palate is vibrant, anchored in cool, conifer freshness, with super-fine tannins and an elegant finish."

94/100 Wine Orbit, Sam Kim (2016 vintage)

"Delightfully charming and wonderfully expressed, the inviting bouquet shows dark plum, spiced cherry, smoked game and floral characters with a touch of pepper spice. The palate delivers excellent concentration and roundness, wonderfully complemented by velvety mouthfeel and supple tannins. The wine offers lovely fruit purity combined with subtle savoury complexity, finishing long and attractive. At its best: now to 2022. $40.00. www.rmwines.co.nz. Nov 2017."

Variety Shiraz / Syrah
Region Hawkes Bay
Closure Cap
Volume 750ml
Maturity 2022 - 2028

This Wine Goes Well With

with GAME
with LAMB
with VENISON

Taste

4

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If for any reason you are not entirely happy with your order or you suspect that they may be affected by a quality issue, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will remedy the problem straight away. Contact us on 0800 422 767.