2014 Te Motu Cabernet Merlot

Brand	Te Motu
Region	Waiheke Island
Varietal	Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot Cabernet Franc
Size	750ml
Alcohol %	14.0%
Vintage	2014
Country	New Zealand

Te Motu, is the original Maori name for Waiheke and their story began in 1988 when the Dunleavy family procured land, becoming some of the pioneers of the island. Planted in 1989 in the Onetangi Valley where it is sheltered from the north and west, enabling them to perfectly ripen the fruit. The family vision was clear, to master wines of the Bordeaux style, blending Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot and this they have done.

A little shy on the nose initially but with air it opens to inviting aromas of blackcurrant, cedar, tobacco leaves, hints of leather and spice.

This reminds me of older Bordeaux styles 20 years or so ago, before climate change was so obvious. There is a lovely array of ripe and herbaceous fruit; cinnamon, blackberries roasted green peppers with cigar box and sandlewood flavours, a smooth linear palate complimented by the silky mouthcoating tannins and fine acid backbone. Decant before serving or cellar for 5-8 years. A match for roast beef or lamb.