Tasted from barrel, the 2009 Magna Praemia has a crisp, well-defined, slightly meaty, Saint-Emilion-esque bouquet. The palate is medium-bodied well balanced with fine tannins, quite linear at the moment and just missing the peacock’s tail demonstrated by the Destinae. There is an attractive clarity and sense of naturalness here and it will come into its own in 2-3 years time. Drink 2012-2017. Mike and Anne Spratt planted their first vines in a north-facing amphitheater in 2000 and subsequently constructed a state-of-the-art winery to practice their artisan winemaking. Their inspiration is Bordeaux, three variations of a single wine: the entry-level Destinae that is Right Bank in style, their flagship Magna Praemia Left Bank (matured in 100% new oak) and the Mystae sitting somewhere in between. This is a boutique operation and quantities are small, but they are well worth seeking out. Those wishing to purchase Destiny Bay’s wines directly in the USA should go to www.destinybaywines.com.