The top of the range Bordeaux style blend from Villa Maria, in a spectacular vintage for Hawke’s Bay reds. Grown on the Gimblett Gravels (Ngakirikiri means “the gravels”) with 97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Merlot in the blend. A dark, inky garnet colour in the glass. Perfumed with blackcurrant, raspberry, bramble, elderberry, lavender, toasted spices, vanilla and violet florals. Approachable and elegant into the palate, with nothing sticking out. Tannins are fine, supple and lengthy. Acidity gives drive and freshness, and there are enough savoury elements of peat, black olive and mocha to add balance. Shows an overall level of shine and polish throughout. 96pts
Villa Maria Ngakirikiri 2013
