Ships January 2009. Order Now. Pre-order deadline is December 8. We will not charge you or ship until January 2009.

The Region: Located on the country's most easterly tip and closest to the international dateline, Gisborne boasts the world's most easterly vineyards and the first vines to see the sun each day. The region receives high sunshine hours on coastal plains that are sheltered from the west by a range of mountains.

The Wine: Dry and medium bodied with a soft, supple fruity palate of boysenberry, plums, redcurrant and ripe black cherries, this Merlot has a wonderful spicy aroma, accentuated with light warm oak and a rich, rounded mouthfeel, leading to a long, elegant finish.

The Food: This Merlot is an excellent choice to pair with poultry, grilled meats and especially rare prime rib. Other foods, such as tomato-based pasta sauces or lamb chops also complement the tannins in this wine.

It is tempting to drink this wine immediately, to savor the rich concentrated plummy flavors. However, the tiers of red currant, raspberry and black cherry notes won't show until six months and they'll eventually evolve into a deeply flavored and majestic wine.

Makes 6 U.S. gallons and includes labels and all ingredients. Will ship January 2008. We will not ship or charge your credit card until January 2008.