Stonyridge Larose Waiheke Island 2022

Along with Te Mata Coleraine this is the best Cabernet blend from New Zealand - from the beautiful Waiheke Island .

The 2022 Larose is the final vintage in this four-year vertical in front of me, and so far, each wine has expressed its own distinct personality, while still being absolutely of the same Larose DNA. Here, the 2022 offers vibrant red fruit, gently grainy/finely milled tannin and a core of redcurrant, cassis, raspberry pip, a hint of nori and layers of dried herbs. I feel that it's more in line with the 2020, and this is a good thing. The tannins are profuse and pervasive, and it is shaped very much in the manner of a lovely future wine. My only slight quibble hangs over the persistence of fruit, which while vibrant right now, may not have the depth of the 2020, 2021 or 2019. Time will tell. 14.5% alcohol, sealed under cork. Drink 2024-2037. 94+ Points. Erin Larkin, The Wine Advocate.