Villa Maria Private Bin Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon

Ok, so we know that Villa Maria are one of the best producers in NZ and that they win a hell of a lot of medals (in fact they’re NZ’s most awarded winery) but when even their entry level, everyday quaffing Private Bin label is getting in on the act you know they’ve got the golden touch!

This is their Private Bin red blend from sunny old Hawke’s Bay – just the spot for growing ripe fruit full of flavour. They’ve blended two of the better known styles in this part of Aotearoa – Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. A soft, easy drinking style full of dark berry and cherry fruit flavours.

This latest 2022 vintage caught the eye when Master of Wine Bob Campbell gave it a glowing write up in The Real Review. Scoring it a highly respectable 90/100 and slapping it with a Top Value Award, Bob said “The soft, plum-like flavours of merlot dominate the normally more assertive cabernet sauvignon characters in this appealing floral influenced wine. Easy-drinking and mellow red in a popular style. Good value.”

It also caught the eye (nose and mouth) of The Listener’s Michael Cooper. Scoring it 4 out of 5 Stars, Cooper said “This bargain-priced red was aged for 18 months in tanks and oak barrels. Full-coloured and mouthfilling, it has strong, youthful plum/spice flavours, hints of herbs and spices, savoury notes adding complexity and a moderately firm finish. Still developing, it should be at its best mid-2025+.”

Pair it with the Sunday roast or steaks, sausages and cuts of lamb coming off the BBQ.