Clearview Estate Basket Press Cabernet Merlot Franc 2019

Winemaking
The Basket Press is Clearview’s flagship red blend, made using traditional basket pressing for gentle extraction and elevated texture. This 2019 vintage combines Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc from coastal vineyards near Te Awanga. Aged for 18 months in French oak barriques, the wine is rich, refined, and layered with depth.

Bouquet
Lifted aromatics of dark plum, black cherry, and cassis, with hints of tobacco, cedar, and clove. Earthy undertones and coastal freshness add complexity.

Palate
Full-bodied and generous, showing ripe black fruits, fine-grained tannins, and well-integrated oak. Notes of blackberry, dark chocolate, and dried herbs carry through to a long, spicy finish with savoury grip.

Food Pairing
Ideal with slow-roasted lamb, beef short ribs, mushroom and lentil stew, or hard cheeses. A perfect wine for autumnal dishes or rich winter fare.

Cellaring
Drinking beautifully now but will continue to evolve for 8–12 years. Decant to unlock its aromatic depth and texture.

Interesting Fact
Basket pressing is an artisanal technique rarely used in modern winemaking. It allows for the gentlest extraction of juice and tannin, resulting in a smoother, more elegant wine—Clearview’s signature touch in this age-worthy Hawke’s Bay red.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%