Estimated value

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Tasting notes

Tasting notes
Score 96/100 · Drink 2024-2041, Erin Larkin, Wine Advocate, Aug 2024

The 2021 Awatea Cabernets Merlot is dusty and chalky aromatically, with lavender and crushed rocks, pouch tobacco and a sheet or two of nori. The wine feels fleshy despite that, and this brings a pleasurable see-saw of savory and succulent. This is an excellent wine and perfumed to the extreme.

Critic scores

Critic scores
95
95/100

Average Score

93
93/100

Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous

96
96/100

Erin Larkin, Wine Advocate

More reviews and scores

93 points
Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous
Score 93/100 · Drink 2024-2038, Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous, Apr 2023

The 2021 Awatea blend is 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot and 14% Cabernet Franc. It is young and intense with masses of headstrong fruit: brooding cassis and dark chocolate provide some of the mille feuille-like layers in this wine, along with bright lifted green herbal notes and violets. What's most attractive about this wine is its texture and persistence from both its freshness and the shape of the tannins. It has a lengthy savory finish that's all mocha and black tea. Great value for money - this is an elegant, sophisticated wine that will best be drunk over the medium to long term.

About the producer

Te Mata
View Producer

Product details

Country / Region
Grape Blend

Merlot

Colour

Red

Taste

Dry

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