Craggy Range Te Kahu 2006, Gimblett Gravels, New Zealand

This has been in the cellar for a couple of years since purchasing from Majestic. It's a Bordeaux Blend based on Merlot, with Malbec and Cabernets Sauvignon and Franc also present.
The nose reminds me of St Emilion with sweet blackcurrants and redcurrant jelly (where's the lamb?). There's also a little black treacle and allspice from the oak ageing in evidence. It seems very 'proper'. The palate starts with sweet and grippy currant fruit, but verges towards sour and a little abrupt. Towards the finish it is intensely savoury and a little clunky. If I had any I'd keep hold of it, perhaps more in hope than expectation - as it is it's a little austere I'm afraid.

Gallimard Cuvee de Reserve

Gallimard is a grower in Ricey, in the Aube to the south of the champagne region, with 10ha of vines and an output of 150000 bottles per year. It's Pinot Noir country down there, and this is certainly largely Pinot - I can't find any detailed information but I wouldn't be surprised if there was just a touch of chardonnay in this too.
This is rich with classic baked apples, roasted nuts and vanilla on the nose, but also the delicacy of honeysuckle and citrus. There's a lovely fine texture on the palate, with textbook pinot richness, waxy fruit and umami flavours. It's fairly simple and primary but very delicious - at around £25 it is excellent value.