Te Mata Estate Chardonnay 2024

Te Mata Estate Chardonnay is a bright, polished Hawke's Bay Chardonnay with peach, pear and lemon rind at the centre, backed by a subtle savoury edge of flint, marzipan and gently toasty oak. The palate has creamy weight without feeling heavy, thanks to lively acidity and a long, clean finish. Made by one of New Zealand's historic family-owned estates, it draws fruit from three Te Mata vineyard areas across Hawke's Bay. This is a smart choice for drinkers who enjoy modern Chardonnay with both generosity and freshness. Pour it with roast chicken, grilled fish, creamy pasta or a relaxed Friday night dinner.

What the winery says:

The grapes were harvested between 26 February and 21 March 2024 from Te Mata Estate's Woodthorpe Terraces, Bridge Pa Triangle and Havelock Hills vineyards. Tank fermentation retained the wine's fresh fruit character, while partial barrel fermentation, maturation on gross lees and malolactic fermentation added richness and integration. The finished wine combines peach, lemon rind, pear and buttered popcorn with marzipan, flint and tarragon, carried by bright acidity and a long palate.

What the experts say:

James Suckling, 94/100 (2024 Vintage)
"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."

Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, 93/100 (2024 Vintage)
"It's elegantly expressed on the nose, showing white flesh peach, fig, oatmeal, subtle vanilla, and roasted cashew aromas. The palate delivers succulent fruit flavours with creamy flow, backed by finely pitched acidity, finishing lingering and stylish. At its best: now to 2029."

Christina Pickard, Wine Enthusiast, 90 Points (2024 Vintage)
“It bursts with tropical and citrus fruit backed by toastier notes.”

Decanter World Wine Awards, Silver Medal and 90 Points (2024 Vintage)
“Lovely purity, fine lees complexity and integrated oak spice.”