Te Mata Estate Chardonnay Vineyards 2024

Tried this last night and thought not really ready as yet, so I’m having another crack at it today. I think it was only bottled recently. This is a fresh-faced and juicy wine as at now, quite fruity, with peach and pear, a nip of grapefruit, a little spice and green herb, very slight struck match. It pulls a little finer in the mouth with bright citrus acidity, again a spray of green herb and lime zest through the gently tropical fruit, finishing with a spicy tang and solid length, a bit of flint on exit. Some green olive. Needs a bit of time to settle but it’s a lively wine of interest. Points: 91/100

The Wine Front ∙ 1st Aug 2025

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. Points: 94/100

jamessuckling.com ∙ 13th Jun 2025