Matariki
Matariki 2000 Quintology Red (Hawke's Bay)
- $26
As you might guess from the name, this blend contains five grape varieties: 33% Cabernet Sauvignon, with smaller amounts of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Malbec. The result is a supple, charming wine that offers modest cherry fruit flavors and some notes of herbal, fresh-cut greens.
— J.C.
(12/15/2003)
Matariki 2007 Aspire Chardonnay (Hawke's Bay)
- $19
Chunky in style, with slightly sappy, resiny notes ladled over bold tropical fruit. There’s a nice creaminess to the midpalate, with guava coming through on the finish. Drink now.
— J.C.
(7/1/2010)
Matariki 2004 Pinot Noir (Hawke's Bay)
- $31
This is from a part of New Zealand not known for its Pinot Noir, but don’t discount it for that—it offers plenty of Pinot character, from its earth, mushroom and cola-scented bouquet to its plump, silky texture and tart, sour-cherry finish. Drink now.
— J.C.
(12/15/2006)
Matariki 2008 Aspire Sauvignon Blanc (Hawke's Bay)
- Online Exclusive
- $15
Combines slightly pungent herbal notes with passion fruit and pineapple in a chunky, assertively fruity style that lacks a bit of elegance.
— J.C.
(9/1/2010)
Matariki 2002 Sauvignon Blanc (Hawke's Bay)
- $14
Matariki’s entry-level Sauvignon Blanc (they also make a Reserve) is a basic, grass-and-grapefruit version of New Zealand “Savvy.” It’s relatively light in body, with crisp acidity and a cleansing finish.
— J.C.
(9/1/2003)
Matariki 2005 Sauvignon Blanc (Hawke's Bay)
- $18
A step down from the superbly concentrated 2004, Matariki’s Sauvignon features modest grapefruit flavors allied to racy acidity this vintage. Light and zippy on the palate, it’s tart and refreshing.
— J.C.
(11/1/2006)
Matariki 2007 Sauvignon Blanc (Hawke's Bay)
- $15
Hmmm. This has plenty of intensity, strident grapefruit flavors and crisp acids, but the aromas are marked by onion or garlic scents that make the wine perplexing to evaluate. From memory, a bottle tasted nonblind seemed much cleaner, so perhaps the sample was just off?
— J.C.
(9/1/2008)
Matariki 1999 Merlot (Hawke's Bay)
- $25
Solidly plummy, but also tastes a little roasted or stewed, with raisiny notes. Ready to drink now.
— J.C.
(5/1/2001)
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