The 2007 Ironclad is where things start getting really interesting, a blend of 42% Cabernet Sauvignon, 38% Cabernet Franc and 20% Merlot, this has a compelling, brooding nose with notes of blackberry, cedar, creme de cassis and a touch of burnt match. The palate is full-bodied, opulent with thick chewy tannins – an imposing wine, ferociously backward but with great harmony and an almost Pomerol-like finish. Drink over 4-6 years. Located on the picturesque Waiheke Island just a ferry-ride from Auckland, Man ‘O War (named after the local kauri trees that supplied masts for Captain Cook’s ships) is located on the eastern side of the island on a choice parcel of land on the 4,500 acres farm owned by the Spencer family. With such expansive land, it is akin to a Burgundy vigneron gifted the choice of plots in the Cote de Nuits, and they have focused upon their steepest land, up to 45 degrees and their unique, volcanic Stony Batter Clay Loam soil. Whilst their whites still need a bit of work, their reds were very impressive. No known American importer.