2013 - Villa Maria, Ngakirikiri Cabernet Sauvignon

The 2013 Ngakirikiri, Villa Maria’s flagship wine, comes from vines planted between 1992 and 1995 on the Gimblett Gravels, and sees 18 months in 52% new French oak. Deep in colour, it offers an impressive bouquet of violet-infused black fruit; touches of blueberry and cassis lend a tangible opulence to the Cabernet Sauvignon. The well-balanced palate displays grainy tannin, well-judged acidity and layers of plush blackberry laced with white pepper and thyme, leading to a refined finish. This is a very fine, beautifully crafted Cabernet that should drink well for a decade. Tasted on two separate occasions. Readers are advised to give this a two-hour decant.

A blend of 97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Merlot, the 2013 Ngakirikiri Cabernet Sauvignon (the first release of this new label) has a deep garnet-purple color, with intense cassis, blueberry and blackberry aromas over notes of pencil shavings, cloves, lavender and dried herbs. Medium-bodied, the taut, elegant palate has good ripe tannins and plenty of freshness, finishing with lovely poise.