The final stop on our Waiheke Island tour was Mudbrick Vineyard.  We started the tour with being handed a glass of their Sauvignon Blanc.  How nice!  (Per the site — Intense aromas of passionfruit, gooseberry and freshly cut grass. The palate is concentrated tropical and citrus notes with juicy acidity and a long polished finish.)

We walked around and learned about the history, the grapes, etc.  While checking out these physical grapes, we were handed a glass of their Syrah.  The pepper notes were very present.  (Displays aromas of plum, blackcurrants, black pepper corns and camphor. The palate has concentrated dark fruits, liquorice and spice with plush round tannins and a long pure finish.)

All this while having an amazing view!  Can I have a ride?  Apparently these swing by often.

We finished off in the tasting room with a taste of the Merlot/Cabernet Blend.  Home run!  I knew I still had two cities to visit on my trip but I had to take one with me.  Wow, what a taste.  (Displays aromas of plums, cassis, dried herbs, pencil shavings and dark chocolate. The palate is refined and elegant with soft powdery tannins and a long classic finish.)  Side note, pencil shavings?  So many great ‘things’ you can add to wines.  Besides the pencil being far out, the fact that it’s a shaving.  Do you get the sharpener ready and compare?  Love being wine lovers.