2023 Te Mata Coleraine Cabernet Merlot, Hawkes Bay

This cuvée is a selection of the best from each vintage. In 2023, the strongest performer was the Cabernet Sauvignon. The elevation in all aspects of this wine from the already tremendously impressive Awatea is significant. With raspberry, iodine, crushed shells, nori, pressed flowers, new lead pencil, tobacco, bramble and cassis, it is magnificent. I love this wine.

98 points Erin Larkin robertparker.com

Stunning bouquet ... engaging and captivating. The palate exhibits immense concentration and presence, superbly enhanced by silky texture and layers of chalky tannins.
The acidity is perfectly pitched and provides freshness to this long-living wine. A wine of meticulous precision and undeniable sophistication.

98 points Sam Kim wineorbit.com

Te Mata Coleraine Cabernet Merlot from Hawke’s Bay is a stunning, award-winning wine that consistently captures the best of New Zealand’s premier wine-growing region. Known for its perfect combination of climate, soil, and vineyard care, Hawke’s Bay produces some of the country’s most sought-after reds, and Coleraine is arguably one of its finest expressions. This Cabernet Merlot blend has earned a loyal following and, as a highly collectible wine, sells out year after year—so if you manage to get your hands on a bottle, consider yourself lucky.

The winemaker at Te Mata, Nick Buck, is an industry legend, and his meticulous approach to crafting wines that express the true potential of the region has earned Te Mata a reputation for excellence. Coleraine is sourced from the winery’s best vineyards, where the fruit ripens slowly in the warm Hawke’s Bay climate, producing wines with deep, complex flavors and age-worthy potential. The Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and a small amount of Cabernet Franc blend together seamlessly, creating a rich, structured wine with layers of flavor and texture.

In the glass, Te Mata Coleraine Cabernet Merlot has a deep, dark ruby color with garnet hues, reflecting its ageability and depth. The nose is captivating, with rich aromas of dark fruits like blackberry, blackcurrant, and plum, intertwined with hints of tobacco, cedar, and spice. Subtle herbal notes and a touch of vanilla from the oak aging add further complexity, making it a wine that invites exploration.

On the palate, Coleraine is full-bodied and velvety, with a beautiful balance of ripe fruit, smooth tannins, and vibrant acidity. The black fruit flavors dominate, with blackberry, currant, and a touch of fig, while the oak contributes layers of spice, chocolate, and a hint of toasted coffee. The tannins are firm yet polished, providing structure that will allow the wine to age gracefully for years. The finish is long and elegant, with lingering dark fruit and a touch of earthy spice, leaving a satisfying and memorable impression.

As a highly collectible wine, Te Mata Coleraine is perfect for cellaring, but it also pairs beautifully with modern cuisine. Think grilled steaks with a rich pepper sauce, lamb chops with mint chimichurri, or even a modern twist on classic beef Wellington. It’s also a fantastic match for flavorful, savory dishes like duck confit, charred vegetables, or a rich, umami-packed mushroom risotto. Aged cheeses, such as a creamy blue or a mature cheddar, will elevate the experience even further, making this wine ideal for pairing with bold, flavorful dishes.