The 2009 Te Awa Cabernet/Merlot, composed of 44% Cabernet Sauvignon, 41% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc and 2% Malbec that was aged for 20 months in French oak barrels, has intense aromas of blueberry, pine, wood and vanilla that dissipate quickly and raspberry, blackberry and black cherry notes emerge. It is an extra-dry, medium bodied, integrated wine, with very good acidity, refined tannins (no need to decant – 15 min, however needs to be strained due to many tartrate crystals) and a medium to long, graphite silkiness finish. Sip by itself or enjoy with quite diverse foods; drink now – 2020+. My impression: BEAUTIFUL, 91 pts – sold originally for $28.95 now for nearly $5 less – recommended due to its value and quality. Tasted June/13.

See my wine recommendations readily available at the LCBO here:

http://grapeselections.com/grapeselections

or here @
http://www.winealign.com/wino/dantrcka/recommended-wines-you-can-still-buy