Ngakirikiri by Villa Maria is a flagship expression of New Zealand winemaking, crafted to showcase the remarkable depth and complexity of the country's finest terroir. Named after the Maori word for "the gravels", this wine is a true testament to the unique soils and microclimate of the Gimblett Gravels in Hawke's Bay. Ngakirikiri is a Bordeaux-style blend, meticulously assembled from select parcels of hand-picked grapes, and aged in premium oak, resulting in a wine of extraordinary poise, power, and longevity. Villa Maria's uncompromising focus on quality and innovation is evident in every sip, making Ngakirikiri a coveted bottle for collectors and connoisseurs alike.
Tasting Notes
Appearance:
Ngakirikiri pours a dense, brooding garnet with inky violet hues at the core, beautifully framed by a subtle ruby rim. Its youthful intensity is immediately apparent, giving a striking first impression in the glass.
Nose:
The bouquet is opulent and multi-layered, revealing luscious aromas of ripe blackcurrants, dark cherries, and plum compote, intertwined with savoury notes of cigar box, cedar, and graphite. Subtle hints of violets, cocoa, and baking spices unfold with time, reflecting both varietal character and masterful oak integration.
Palate:
On the palate, Ngakirikiri delivers a symphony of bold fruit flavours-blackberry and cassis lead, supported by succulent damson and rich dark chocolate. Underneath the ripe fruit is a sophisticated savoury core, displaying nuances of tobacco leaf, earthy minerals, and finely woven French oak. The wine's structure is assertive yet harmoniously balanced, with layers of velvety tannin and fresh acidity lending both concentration and finesse.
Finish:
The finish is exceptionally long, lingering with echoes of spiced black fruit, refined oak, and a touch of mocha. Persistent and elegant, Ngakirikiri leaves a lasting impression of depth, complexity, and seamless integration; a true benchmark for premium New Zealand red blends.
