Rahona Myers Road Black Label SV Pinot Noir 2025 ($65)
An enticing and somewhat enigmatic bouquet features an array of black cherry, violet bramble, and a hint of red currant or raspberry. A touch of whole-bunch fermentation provides a lovely spicy aromatic lift. In the glass, the focus shifts to dark fruit profiles, showcasing black cherry, plum, and further bramble notes. The subtle whole-bunch spice integrates beautifully, leading into a refined acidity. Being current vintage, the wine initially appears tightly wound and brooding; however, with time – even into the next day – its personality unfurls, revealing a richer display of ripe black and red fruits that deepens its allure. It finishes on a savoury note, with elegant tannins, impressive length, and an understated, structured generosity. Pair with a classic French-inspired bistro feast or mushroom dish.
Rahona Thomas Road Black Label SV Pinot Noir 2025 ($65)
This second black label release steps up with enhanced elegance and vibrancy. Lifted florals and red fruits drift from the glass, joined by notes of potpourri and a touch of kirsch. Though initially a bit brooding on the nose, it quickly reveals an intriguing complexity and a generous, welcoming character. That same expressive personality shines on the palate, bursting with red and black fruit notes like red currant, red cherry, and ripe black cherry. A pronounced savouriness from a touch of whole-bunch fermentation comes forward, but with a few swirls and some patience it softens into a smooth, approachable style. Underneath, silky tannins, excellent line and length, and a composed complexity showcase a wine that hits the spot. Perfect with mushroom risotto or roast pork.
Rahona Tempranillo 2025 ($40)
Holy Moly, what a delectable nose – absolutely packed with layers! It opens with heaps of dark berries, and a slight confectionery note drifts past, followed by a beautifully entwined bouquet of dried flowers. And let’s not forget that hint of spice, which gives it a wonderfully savoury, Peninsula cool-climate edge. The palate has just as much personality, bursting with cherries, prune, and even a touch of kirsch. It’s bright and lively with every sip, showing hints of vanilla and molasses. Yet the core of this highly approachable wine remains its soft richness, seamlessly balancing tannins with a subtle complexity from French oak maturation and zippy fresh acidity. Absolutely get your lips around this one. It’s a natural match for tapas, chargrilled lamb, or aged cheese.
Rahona Cabernet Merlot 2025 ($35)
An abundance of blackcurrant and plum unfolds alongside violet and raisin, all elevated by a beautiful floral lift. Subtle cedar notes emerge from its time in French oak, while classic herbal cabernet characters of blackcurrant leaf provide a wonderfully savoury edge. On the palate, those dark fruits carry through, complemented by a touch of prune and a splash of sour cherry that delivers a nice, crisp acidity. My first cabernet merlot I have tasted on the Peninsula, it just seemed to fit in nicely to this pinot-dominated region, combining elegant finesse and juicy depth with lively tannins and a smooth, lingering roundness that stands out as the highlight. I had this with a slow-cooked beef bourguignon, but a steak with all the trimmings will be a winner too.
NIGEL STREET
INSTA: nigebytheglass
