Ranked #1 of 41 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc from Hawke's Bay
98/100
5 Stars
Bob Campbell
Bright, youthful blended red of cabernet sauvignon (52%), merlot (33%) and cabernet franc (15%). This is classic Coleraine with cassis, cedar, floral, blueberry, a suggestion of wood-smoke, anise and spicy oak flavours. Terrific depth and an exquisite balance between fruit sweetness and acid/tannin structure. It will be a long-distance runner.
Tasted: 17/03/2020
Drink: 2019 to 2028
97+ Points Robert Parker
The 2018 Coleraine is supple and silky. A cavalcade of red and brown notes tumbles forth across the palate, with pomegranate molasses, nutmeg, layers of cassis, bramble, mahogany and raspberry seed. The wine is incredibly fresh, and it's starting to offer notes of attractive development, albeit at a very slow pace. This 2018 today is the window into both youth and evolution; we can see where it started, in its fete of vibrant youth and energy, but we can also see where it is going, and both views offer pleasure. This is a superb wine. 13.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.
Published: Jun 06, 2025 Drink 2025 - 2048.
Source: Robert Parker.