Te Mata Estate Sauvignon Blanc

Clear, brilliant and crystalline, Estate Sauvignon Blanc appears spun from bright golden light. Lime, passionfruit, guava, and honey-dew melon leap from the glass in this powerful statement of New Zealand’s famous sauvignon blanc expression. Beyond, the palate is rich, layered and juicy. A moreish acidity runs the length of this wine, all the way though to its mouth-watering finish. Deliciousness redefined, Estate Sauvignon Blanc has arrived.

2022

Wine Advocate 92: The 2022 Estate Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc has been fully tank fermented, no solids, but it was left on the lees post-ferment for texture. There are notes of cheesecloth, pineapple lumps, Pink Lady apples and saline acidity. It’s fleshy, with preserved citrus, juicy acidity and plenty of brine, then sugar snap peas, Nashi pears and a hint of guava/lychee. The fruit was sourced totally from the estate vineyards in Hawkes Bay; Havelock Hills, Gimblett Gravels and Dartmoor. 12.7% alcohol. Winemaker Phil Brodie said there is a clonal mix here: 2413 clone (most of Marlborough is planted to this clone), 316, 317, 905 (one of the Bordeaux clones). The vineyards produce grapes with slightly lower acid than Marlborough, from being further toward the equator, and with lower crops. Concentration and palate weight are the defining characteristics here. Composting and mulching in the vineyards are done for better canopy health.

James Suckling 92: An inviting nose of green apples, pears, lime and dragon fruit. Medium-bodied with supple texture. Elegant and refined with an array of fresh apple and citrus fruit and a succinct finish. Sustainable. Drink now. Screw cap.