# Le Phant Rouge (2016)

- **Producer:** Elephant Hill Estate & Winery Ltd.
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Merlot, Syrah, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
- **Region:** Hawke's Bay, New Zealand
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €20
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** raspberry, black cherry, red plum, black plum, blackberry, vanilla, chocolate, cloves, leather, tobacco, earth

## About this wine

Elephant Hill Le Phant Rouge 2016 is a red blend from Hawke's Bay, New Zealand, produced by Elephant Hill Estate & Winery Ltd. The wine is crafted from a blend of Merlot, Syrah, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc, with grapes sourced from the winery's vineyards across Te Awanga, Bridge Pa Triangle, and Gimblett Gravels. This approach leverages the diverse terroirs within Hawke's Bay. The producer, Elephant Hill, is known for its commitment to quality and sustainability, with all vineyards certified by Sustainable Winegrowers of New Zealand. The 2016 vintage benefited from a warm summer in New Zealand, which is noted as a very good year for red wines.

## Interesting facts

- A blend of five classic Bordeaux varietals.
- Grapes sourced from three distinct Hawke's Bay sub-regions.
- Awarded Gold at the CWSA - China Wine & Spirits Awards 2018.
- Certified by Sustainable Winegrowers of New Zealand.

## Food pairing

The wine's firm tannins and medium-plus body are well-suited to complement the protein and fat in red meats, creating a balanced palate. Savory notes in the food can echo the wine's complexity, while richer dishes stand up to its structure.

## Wine making process

The Elephant Hill Le Phant Rouge 2016 is produced using a blend of five Bordeaux varietals. Fermentation is often carried out in open fermenters, followed by aging for 12 to 17 months. A portion of the aging takes place in seasoned French oak barrels, typically around 40% for some vintages. The winery's approach emphasizes meticulous vineyard management and precise vinification. Elephant Hill Estate & Winery Ltd. adheres to sustainable practices, with all its vineyards certified by Sustainable Winegrowers of New Zealand.