Villa Maria

Villa Maria Library Release Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 Gimblett Gravels, Hawkes Bay

Youthful, ripe and fruit forward bouquet with aromas of black and blue berries laced with sweet bell-pepper and tobacco tones; toasty wood spices; clove and baking spice layers and a definitive layer of violet. On the palate – still very youthful reflecting the ripeness and intensity suggested by the nose; dark berry fruits, brown spices and smoky wood flavours; fine backbone of acidity, bold integrating tannins with a silk and chalk texture package; lengthy finish. Delicious! Drink now – decanting suggested. Best from 2020 through 2030+.

95 Points

Villa Maria Reserve Library Release Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot 2009 Gimblett Gravels, Hawkes Bay

Ripe and intense fruit forward bouquet with Doris plum, blackberry, violets and crushed black cherry aromas. Smoky oak and brown spice layer with vanilla, clove, bay leaf and wood smoke tones. On the palate – juicy, fleshy, ripe and youthful with fleshy textures of dark berry fruits, plum and blackberry. Finer tannins with a silky to chalk-like texture, plenty of acidity and very lengthy finish. Great to be able taste and be reminded that NZ blended red wines made in a Bordeaux style can and do age well. Drink now – decanting suggested. Best from 2020 through 2035+.

96 Points

Villa Maria Library Release Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 Gimblett Gravels, Hawkes Bay

Intense fruit forward bouquet with vibrant red fruit, grass and herb, steely and concentrated red blend bouquet. Youthful with new wood and wood spice tones. On the palate – juicy, fleshy, ripe and youthful with flavours that reflect the bouquet exactly – plus dark cherry, sweet plum and violets, a pencil lead and light smoky wood layer add further complexity. Moderate tannin impact with a course-silk and chalk texture; medium + acidity and lengthy finish. Overall – vibrant, fresh and distinctive. Drink now – decanting recommended. Best from 2021 through 2030+

95 Points