2013 Ngakirikiri Cabernet Sauvignon
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Tasting Notes
Is this perfection? No, it is better than that, if that is possible. The wine is perfectly formed and composed, and is very proper, but it offers more. Exceptional concentration, brilliant structure, impressive fruit purity and layers of delicious flavours with seamless mouthfeel make this stunning wine thought-provoking and sensually awe-inspiring. This predominantly cabernet sauvignon from their Ngakirikiri vineyard in the Gimblett Gravels district exhibits cassis, plum, floral and cedar characters with subtle cigar box, vanilla and game complexity. Powerful and graceful at the same time with plenty of fine, chalky tannins.
Critic Scores
Average Score
Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, Wine Advocate
James Suckling
More reviews and scores
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. Dec 2016, www.robertparker.com, Drink: 2017-2029
This has Villa Maria's trademark showroom finish. It's a flawless cabernet that delivers a vibrant cassis and redcurrant nose with violet-like perfumes and creamy, spicy oak. The palate's elegantly stated and has attractive roundness to it that makes it approachable, enveloping and handsomely balanced. This sits comfortably alongside the world's best Cabernet wines. Dec 2016, www.jamessuckling.com, Drink: 2016-2025+
Ngakirikiri means “the gravels”. This is a new flagship label that in my view justifies its exalted price tag. It’s quite an extraordinary wine with dense berry, savoury/earth and spicy oak flavours. Long and linear it has power and structure but the tannins are surprisingly soft and pliable. The wine really opened up as it sat in the glass revealing interesting coffee, malt/peat and toasty characters together with a suggestion of violet. Definitely worth decanting. Collectible and age worthy red. Sep 2015, www.bobcampbell.nz, Drink: 2015-2028
