Hans Herzog Tempranillo 2018 from Marlborough is a super‑serious, Rioja‑lover’s take on the grape, packing in dark cherry, blackberry and plum with layers of chocolate, violet, rose and sweet spice in a deeply concentrated yet surprisingly lifted style. On the palate this Hans Herzog Tempranillo 2018 is dense and mouth‑coating, showing black fruits, cocoa, tobacco and savoury oak, framed by firm, chalky tannins and a long, lush finish that screams extended ageing potential.

This is a natural partner for slow‑cooked lamb shoulder, beef short ribs, smoked brisket or richly spiced chorizo dishes, where that concentration and structure can really flex. It will also shine with Manchego, aged cheddar or jamón and tapas‑style grazing boards, especially after a decent decant to let the fruit and florals unwind.

Hans Herzog Tempranillo 2018 is organically grown, cropped at tiny yields and aged around three years in barrel and bottle – effectively Reserva level – putting it firmly in Gran Reserva Rioja territory in terms of complexity, depth and cellaring, while still clearly speaking of Marlborough with its vibrant fruit and freshness.