2024 Te Mata Estate Chardonnay, Hawkes Bay

Very attractive, showing green apples, pears and hints of cream. Medium-bodied with a lovely core of fruit and a creamy texture. Just a hint of matchstick. Complex yet subtle. 30% barrel-fermented and about seven months aged in barrel. Real chardonnay. Drink or hold. Screw cap.

94 points jamessuckling.com

Te Mata Estate Chardonnay from Hawke’s Bay is a polished and beautifully balanced white that showcases the finesse and vibrancy of one of New Zealand’s most historic wine producers. With vineyards nestled into the sun-soaked Havelock Hills and cooler sites further inland, Te Mata draws on both richness and restraint to craft a Chardonnay with impressive depth and precision.

The fruit is hand harvested and whole bunch pressed, then fermented in a mix of new and seasoned French oak barriques with wild and cultured yeasts. Partial malolactic fermentation and regular lees stirring bring creaminess and texture without overwhelming the wine’s natural freshness.

It opens with aromas of white peach, nectarine, citrus blossom and grilled cashew, with a hint of flint and brioche. The palate is clean and mouthfilling, offering stone fruit, lemon curd and fine oak spice, wrapped in chalky acidity and a long, mineral finish.

Perfect with roast chicken, grilled lobster, or pumpkin and sage ravioli. While it’s vibrant and complete now, this Chardonnay will develop further richness and complexity over 5 to 8 years.