Gold Medal - New Zealand International Wine Show 2023

5 Stars - Sam Kim, Wine Orbit
"This is gorgeously expressed on the nose showing golden peach, lemon pith, brioche, cedar and nougat notes, followed by a wonderfully weighted plate delivering succulent fruit flavours with fleshy texture and juicy acidity, making it delectable and highly enjoyable. At its best: now to 2030" Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, Jul 2023

93 Points - Cameron Douglas MS
"Barrel fermented aromas and palate of ripe and fleshy yellow stone fruits, fresh and baled apple, some quince and butterscotch moments and baking spices of barrel from cinnamon to vanilla. Generous weight and creaminess as the wine touches the palate, the gently warming alcohol and acidity deliver the fruit and barrel flavours seamlessly across the palate. Additional flavours of nut and some wood smoke add complexity. Acid line and fine tannins deliver additional mouthfeel - all leading to a balanced and generous finish. best drinking from late 2023 through 2028" Cameron Douglas, Master Sommelier, Jul 2023

Purchased by Richard & Kirsten Searle in 2008, the 15 hectare Matawhero Estate has now been replanted and revitalised.
“This revival comes from our passion to produce distinctive single vineyard wines with the intense fruit flavours and roundness that is reflective of the Gisborne terroir. We wanted to truly showcase the best of our wonderful region.”

Winery description
"Lovely golden colour. Ripe peach and melon layered with butterscotch and toasty oak notes. The palate is big, rich and full with great length and weight.

The grapes for this elegant Gisborne Chardonnay are grown from two select parcels from the Tietjen vineyard in the Hexton Hills or "Golden Slopes" appellation of Gisborne. This narrow 10km strip is made up of small parcels of elevated sloping land. Medium to heavy Kaiti clay base is overlaid with 20-30cm of light black topsoil, with influences from the limestone foothills. The site has had a rich history in producing award-winning Chardonnay for over 20 years and the wine is made from the Mendoza clone of Chardonnay. The vines achieved good ripeness and with low yields came excellent flavours and weight to the fruit."

Vegan