Description
The 2016 Obsidian Reserve “The Mayor” is a premium red blend from Obsidian Vineyard, located on Waiheke Island. It is a “visionary” Bordeaux-style blend that intentionally excludes the traditional heavy hitters of the region, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, focusing instead on a blend of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec.
Wine Profile
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Producer: Obsidian Vineyard (Onetangi, Waiheke Island)
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2016 Blend: 50% Cabernet Franc, 33% Petit Verdot, 17% Malbec.
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Alcohol: 13.0%
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Oak Treatment: Aged for 11 months in a mix of French (33% new) and American (17% new) oak barrels.
Tasting Notes
The 2016 vintage is described as an elegantly proportioned and refined red:
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Appearance: Deep black-hued ruby-red with slight purple tones at the rim.
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Aroma: Fragrant blackberry and blackcurrant fruit layered with dark herbs, nutty oak, and earthy minerals (iron, smoke, and toast).
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Palate: Medium-bodied with concentrated flavors of dark berries. It features “lacy” acidity and fine-grained tannins, giving it a silkier flow compared to the winery’s flagship “The Obsidian” blend.
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Finish: Aromatic and lingering with a persistent herbaceous note.
Drinking Window & Pairings
As of 2026, this wine is in its peak drinking window. While it was originally projected to be best through 2023–2025, well-cellared bottles of Waiheke reds from this period often hold their structure for 10+ years.
