A blend of 41.7% Merlot, 38.3% Cabernet Franc, 10.8% Malbec, 6.7% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2.5% Petit Verdot, the 2009 Merlot Cabernet displays a deep garnet-purple color and intense red plum and black cherry aromas over notes of blackberries, cloves, Mediterranean herbs and cinnamon. Full bodied with a medium level of velvety tannins and medium-high acid, it has mouth-filling vanilla, toast and savory chocolate flavors going long into the finish. Drinking now, it should cellar to 2015. Importer: Youngs Market, Tustin, CA

The 2008 Merlot/Cabernet Franc/Malbec has an introverted nose at first and then a lovely subtle scent of smoked bacon and then bay leaf coming through. Good definition, but hopefully it will develop more vigour with bottling. A sweet entry, peppery black fruits with that trait of bay leaf returning. Vibrant acidity, a little angular towards the finish but there is an attractive purity here with a spicy finish. Idyllic Waiheke Island has enormous potential given its volcanic soils and microclimates on the eastern part of the island and Man ‘O War is one of its most promising producers, especially now that they have Duncan McTavish (ex-Waipara Springs and Pegusas Bay) at the helm.US importer being confirmed at time of writing.