Description
98 Points ‘A superstar’, Erin Larkin, The Wine Advocate
100 Points ‘undeniably THE GOAT of New Zealand wine’, Sam Kim
98 Points ‘Is it one of the best Coleraines ever?’, James Suckling
98 Points ‘possibly the best I have yet tasted’, Bob Campbell MW
97+ Points ‘Incredible wine’, Gary Walsh, The Wine Front
97 Points ‘A smashing cabernet blend’, Huon Hooke, The Real Review
VINEYARDS
Coleraine ’21 was hand harvested from separate plots within Te Mata’s vineyards between 9 and 29 March 2021.
WINEMAKING
Each parcel of grapes was destemmed before a traditional warm-plunged fermentation and extended maceration on skins. The resulting wines were then run to predominately new French oak barrels for 17 months’ maturation. Throughout this time, they were regularly topped and racked. The assemblage was made in December 2021 and the finished wine was bottled in December 2022. The final blend is 56% cabernet sauvignon, 32% merlot and 12% cabernet franc.
TASTING NOTE
The deep crimson colour of Coleraine ‘21, edged in royal purple, is the first clue to this wine’s exceptional character. Pure Hawke’s Bay cabernet aromatics leap from the glass – wild blackberry, blackcurrant, thyme, and cedar, all interwoven with that signature Coleraine perfume of fresh roses. The palate precisely balances richness with vibrant energy; modern and varietally expressive, with cassis, raspberry, mocha, spice, and a distinctive minerality that is uniquely 2021. The fruit ripeness is so succulent, it cloaks those profound, chiselled tannins that carry the palate on endlessly. With perfume, power, finesse, and length this is an absolute original. Coleraine ’21 is ‘The One’.
Drink: 2026-2045+
ABV – 14%Alc
