Private Bin Hawkes Bay Organic Merlot

Villa Maria started organic winemaking 20 years ago and 30% of their owned vineyards are now organically managed. They’re aiming for 100% by 2030.

This family business currently has 3 organic wines available in Australia, this Private Bin Organic Merlot for $20, a Sauv Blanc which you can find my notes on a few posts back and a single vineyard Pinot Noir.

This merlot is made from Hawkes Bay (North Island) fruit. The high sunshine hours and low rainfall in the Hawkes Bay make it the ideal spot in New Zealand for growing the French Bordeaux variety Merlot.

So what did we think about this sample bottle?

I found it a ruby red shade in the glass with plum pie, earthy notes, wild strawberries and pencil shavings aromas rising from the glass. In the mouth those plum notes flow through with subtle tannins, light acidity and a hint of vanilla bean. There may even be a lick of mint chocolate in there too. Very darn smashable!

This wine was sent to me as a sample, I was under no obligation to post about it.

All opinions are based on my own taste buds. Wine is subjective & always evolving, so make sure you drink what you enjoy!

Had it with obi one pasta. Ok, not special.

Motty had this 7 years ago

Kelsey had this 10 years ago