While most of the world knows New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc through Marlborough’s intensely aromatic lens, Te Mata Estate in Hawke’s Bay offers something refreshingly different. Founded in 1896, Te Mata is one of New Zealand’s oldest wineries, and their Estate Sauvignon Blanc reflects a more restrained, classical style rooted in tradition and terroir.

The 2023 vintage delivers zesty lime, grapefruit, and subtle passionfruit, but trades overt tropicality for stony minerality and herbal precision. The fruit is sourced from carefully farmed sites in Hawke’s Bay—a region that combines warmth and sunshine with maritime influence, producing wines with ripeness and structure.

Fermented in stainless steel and aged briefly on the lees, the wine shows fine texture and length, with brisk acidity and a clean, mouthwatering finish. It’s less explosive than Marlborough, but more detailed and food-friendly, making it a great choice for those who lean toward Loire Sauvignon Blanc or coastal Italian whites.

Perfect with ceviche, goat cheese, grilled asparagus, or Thai salads, and a smart pick for anyone seeking freshness without overload.