Ngakirikiri Cabernet Sauvignon
โณ Drinking Window
Typically at its best from 8 to 20 years after the vintage release, developing profound complexity with age.
๐ฝ๏ธ Food & Wine Pairings
Classic roasted rack of lamb, grilled prime ribeye steak, or slow-braised venison.
โจ Technical Specifications
Named 'Ngakirikiri'โthe Mฤori word for 'The Gravels'โthis flagship red wine is a profound tribute to the unique terroir of the Gimblett Gravels in Hawke's Bay, New Zealand. This prestigious sub-region, defined by the stony remnants of an ancient riverbed, provides the vital heat-retaining soils required to fully ripen Cabernet Sauvignon in a maritime climate. Crafted only in exceptional vintages by the historic Villa Maria estate, founded by Sir George Fistonich in 1961, Ngakirikiri represents the pinnacle of their winemaking. The wine is predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, meticulously blended with small portions of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, and matured in fine French oak barriques for up to 20 months. The result is an incredibly concentrated, structured, and elegant red, boasting intense aromas of cassis, fresh cedar, graphite, and wild thyme, underpinned by fine-grained, muscular tannins.
๐พ About the Producer
Founded in 1961 by Sir George Fistonich, Villa Maria stands as one of New Zealand's most celebrated and pioneering wine producers. From its historic roots in Auckland, the winery has established extensive vineyard holdings across the premier winegrowing regions of Marlborough, Hawke's Bay, and Gisborne. Renowned for its steadfast dedication to sustainability and quality innovation, Villa Maria played an instrumental role in shaping modern New Zealand viticulture and championing regional expressiveness. The estate's diverse portfolio ranges from the globally recognized Private Bin series to site-specific single-vineyard and Reserve wines, excelling in vibrant Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, refined Pinot Noir, complex Chardonnay, and structured Hawke's Bay red blends.