2022 Te Mata Coleraine Cabernet Merlot, Hawkes Bay

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. "The highlight of vintage 2022 was the Cabernet Sauvignon components," says winemaker Phil Brodie (here at Te Mata for 31 vintages). For the fans playing at home, wondering whether or not there will be a 2023 Coleraine, I have good news, friends—there will be. Having spent two hours in the vineyards prior to this tasting, the level of detail and viticultural care fills me with comfort and confidence, even more than I already had. It's great. These older vineyards are looked after to absurd detail. Every 1% pays off, and that is the defining difference between a good estate and a great one.

97+ points Erin Larkin robertparker.com

Oak is a little obvious but it is attractive oak and should integrate into the wine in time (it was bottled six weeks before tasting). Cassis, cedar, floral and tobacco flavours are evident. Youthful wine that clearly needs time. Elegant red that seems to get better every vintage 17 JAN 2024 Drink 2024–2037

97 points Bob Campbell MW therealreview.com

A very elegant young Coleraine with lovely aromas of oyster shell, lead pencil, sweet tobacco, black currant and moss. Very perfumed and expressive. Medium-bodied with fine tannins that are polished and energetic with some citrusy acidity underneath. Some dust to the texture. This is the second highest blend of cabernet sauvignon in the history of Coleraine with 84% cabernet sauvignon, 13% merlot and the rest cabernet franc. March release. Best after 2027 and beyond.