At a glance

Producer

Te Mata Estate

Region

Hawke's Bay, New Zealand

Grape variety

Syrah

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30-$40

Tasting profile

Youthful dark fruit aromas with hints of black pepper, smoked meat, and subtle floral notes. Palate shows concentrated blackberry, plum, and spice with firm tannins.

Evolution: With age, tannins will soften and integrate; secondary flavors of leather, smoked herbs, and earthiness will emerge.

At peak: Rich complexity, polished tannins, balanced acidity, and lingering finish with layered spice and savory notes.

Structure

Acidity

Medium+ acidity providing freshness and balance

Tannins

Firm and gripping, typical of Syrah from mature vines and Hawke's Bay terroir

Alcohol

Approx. 14.0-14.5%

Aging potential

Excellent aging potential estimated at 15+ years due to structure and vintage quality

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2035

Optimal window

2025 to 2035

Current status

Approaching early drinking window

Current condition

Young with developing tannins and acidity, benefit from short-term cellaring

The vintage quality of 2021 in Hawke's Bay, combined with the Syrah’s innate tannic structure and acidity, supports long cellaring of 15 years or more. The wine’s development from youth to peak reflects typical ageing patterns for estate Syrah wines in this region.

Food pairing

Pairs well with grilled lamb, roasted game birds, spiced beef dishes, and aged hard cheeses. Also excellent with Mediterranean herb-based dishes and smoked meats.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (45-60 minutes) — To allow tannins to soften and aromatics to open up, improving approachability in youth.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Te Mata Estate practices sustainable viticulture, including careful water management, integrated pest management, renewable energy use on estate, and minimal intervention winemaking. Packaging uses lightweight bottles and recyclable materials.

Te Mata Estate is recognized as a leader in sustainable practices in New Zealand’s wine industry. Their commitment to sustainable viticulture, waste reduction, and energy conservation, combined with certifications, merits a high sustainability score. The carbon cost from exporting balanced by forward-looking environmental policies.