Te Mata Estate Coleraine Red 2022

Originally a single vineyard designation until 1989, Coleraine now epitomizes a blend crafted from the most exceptional wines cultivated across specific plots within Te Mata Estate's historic Havelock Hills vineyards, first established in 1892. Traditionally led by cabernet sauvignon and complemented by merlot and cabernet franc, Coleraine embodies refinement and classical allure, showcasing the remarkable potential of Bordeaux blends in Hawke’s Bay. In essence, it exudes a more Bordelais character than many Australian Cabernets.

In its youth, Coleraine commands attention with formidable power, yet with time, it undergoes a remarkable transformation, evolving into a wine of exquisite elegance and precision, ensconced within a plush fruit core and supported by a finely woven framework of dry tannins. With a lineage spanning over three decades, Coleraine stands as a modern icon, an indispensable addition to any discerning cabernet enthusiast's collection.

The 2022 Coleraine is laden at this stage with the outrageous attractiveness of youth. I mean, it’s irresistible. There’s raspberry, nori, rose petals, coffee grounds, star anise, salted licorice, sun-dried kelp/nori, warm pine (I know this smell because I was hiking around the Te Mata peak yesterday, and there was a fallen pine tree lying in the sun, and it smelled great) and layers of peppercorns. In the mouth, the wine is so fresh, so alive, with so much energy, but it already is showing the svelte line of this house, this place. With a hint of raw cocoa laced through the finish, I’m sad to push this glass away. It will be the last time that I taste it for a while. A ripper. Excellent. This is composed of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc.