Te Mata Awatea Cabernets Merlot 2023

Te Mata Awatea 2023 – A Classic Hawke’s Bay Icon

Named after the legendary SS Awatea, this distinguished blend continues Te Mata’s legacy of excellence since its first vintage in 1982. Despite the challenges of 2023, Awatea remains a benchmark for Hawke’s Bay Cabernet Merlot blends, showcasing both resilience and refinement.

Blend & Maturation
Crafted from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, this wine underwent traditional warm fermentation, extended maceration, and 15 months of aging in French oak—resulting in structure, depth, and balance.

Accolades

• 96 points – Wine Advocate
• 95 points – Wine Orbit
• 94 points – Gary Walsh

Aromatics
A rich and enticing bouquet of plum, blackberry, and black cherry forms the core, with subtle notes of cola, cassis, bay leaf, lavender, and tapenade adding complexity.

Palate
A beautifully structured wine, where ripe acidity and long, fine tannins create a layered richness. A more approachable style than some vintages, yet still built for aging through 2030.

Food Pairing & Enjoyment
Perfect alongside roast lamb, beef, or venison, this is an exceptional Hawke’s Bay red that delivers depth, elegance, and immediate drinking pleasure while rewarding short to mid-term cellaring.