Te Mata Estate Awatea 2019

Vinted from a blend of 46% cabernet sauvignon, 32% merlot, 22% cabernet franc.

The winery writes "Edged with a brilliant crimson, Awatea Cabernets/Merlot ’19 has a rich magenta core, with dark plum, blackberry, and lush black cherry forming the deep heart of this wine. There’s grace notes of cola and cassis, bay leaf, lavender, and tapenade. Ripe acid and long tannins give a layered richness that builds in length and texture. The classic aromas of the best vintages are already present, the hallmark of age-ability. Awatea Cabernets/ Merlot ’19 is a resplendent vintage, and full of appeal. Best enjoyed from a large glass, with a hard cheese, and good company."

Cameron Douglas MS writes "Very youthful and concentrated with dark berries and clove vanilla oak, smoky and forward, varietal and urgent. Great wine - young and needs time, but has power and muscle I have not really noticed before. Spicy plums and dark berries, black berry and black currant. Firm tannins and acidity, youthful, focused, high energy and very exciting. Best drinking from 2022 through 2028+"

Sam Kim, Wine Orbit writes "Instantly satisfying and inviting on the nose, showing blackcurrant, dried herb, floral and spicy oak characters, leading to a delectably expressed palate that’s filled with dark and red fruit flavours with a discreet oak infusion. Offering excellent structure and immense drinkability at the same time, it’s hugely charming and enticing."