Te Mata Estate Elston Chardonnay, Hawke's Bay, New Zealand

A brilliant white‑gold hue introduces this elegantly composed Chardonnay from Hawke’s Bay. Crafted from hand‑harvested grapes grown in Te Mata Estate’s historic Elston vineyards, the 2021 Elston delivers power, finesse and lingering tension in every sip.

Product Details:

• Grape: 100% Chardonnay from estate Havelock Hills plots, first planted in 1892
• Oak: Aged 11 months in French oak barriques (blend of new and seasoned; approx. 33% new)
• Alcohol: 14.0%
• pH: 3.12
• Total acidity: 7.7 g/L
• Residual Sugar: Dry

Sensory Description:

Intense aromas of golden peach, apricot, and lemon zest unfold into nuances of nougat, nutmeg, and a flicker of salinity. On the palate, expect vibrant citrus acidity balanced by white‑fleshed fruit richness, fine integrated oak tannin, and a seamless, focused texture. The finish is persistent, elegant, and refined.

Winemaker's Background:

Dating from 1896 and still family‑owned, Te Mata Estate is one of New Zealand’s most revered wineries, based in Hawke’s Bay’s historic Havelock Hills. Early plantings of Chardonnay at the Elston vineyard, among the country’s oldest, reflect a legacy of precision viticulture. Under the stewardship of the Buck family, Te Mata has earned international acclaim for flagship wines like Coleraine, Bullnose Syrah, and its premium Elston Chardonnay.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve chilled at 50–55 °F. This Chardonnay pairs beautifully with grilled lobster, butter-poached shellfish, roasted poultry, soft-ripened cheeses like Brie or Camembert, or simply enjoyed on its own to savor its evolving nuances.