Te Mata Estate Cape Crest Sauvignon Blanc

Te Mata Estate Cape Crest Sauvignon Blanc embodies the sophistication and legacy of one of New Zealand’s most prestigious wineries. Crafted in the traditional Bordeaux style, it is a benchmark of barrel-fermented Sauvignon Blanc — layered, refined and enduringly elegant.

Tasting Notes & Experience

Radiating a pale white-gold hue with shimmering green reflections, Cape Crest opens with vibrant aromas of nectarine, grapefruit, lime zest and lemongrass, underpinned by guava and subtle toast. The palate reveals ripe stone fruit, citrus and delicate herbs, balanced by crystalline acidity and a long, savoury, saline finish. A true harmony of fruit concentration and texture.

Key Details

• Winery: Te Mata Estate
• Varietal: 97% Sauvignon Blanc, 2% Semillon, 1% Sauvignon Gris
• Region: Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand
• Vintage: 2023
• Alcohol: 13%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Other: Gluten-Free; Sustainable Winegrowing

Craftsmanship & Story

First produced in 1984, Cape Crest was New Zealand’s pioneering barrel-fermented Sauvignon Blanc. Fruit is hand-harvested from Te Mata’s coastal vineyards, fermented in French oak and aged on lees for 11 months to achieve exceptional depth and structure. Blended with small portions of Semillon and Sauvignon Gris, the wine reflects Te Mata’s long-standing pursuit of balance, complexity and site expression.

Special Features

A modern classic listed among the Fine Wines of New Zealand, Cape Crest delivers a seamless balance of fruit, oak and minerality. Its creamy mid-palate, lifted aromatics and saline edge showcase Hawke’s Bay’s maritime terroir and Te Mata’s masterful craftsmanship.

Recognition & Accolades

Acclaimed by critics worldwide, Cape Crest remains one of New Zealand’s most awarded Sauvignon Blancs, celebrated for its structure, longevity and elegance.

• 96/100 Points & 5 Stars – Sam Kim, Wine Orbit (2023 vintage)
• 95/100 Points – Erin Larkin, The Wine Advocate (2023 vintage)
• 94+/100 Points – Gary Walsh, The Wine Front (2023 vintage)
• 4.5 Stars – Michael Cooper, The Listener (2023 vintage)
• 94/100 Points – James Suckling (2023 vintage)
• 96/100 Points – Sam Kim, Wine Orbit (2022 vintage)
• 96/100 Points – Erin Larkin, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate (2022 vintage)
• 94/100 Points – Gary Walsh, The Wine Front (2022 vintage)

Such consistent recognition underscores Cape Crest’s place as a benchmark in refined, age-worthy New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.

Food Pairings

Elegant and textural, Cape Crest pairs beautifully with pan-seared scallops in citrus butter or roasted chicken with lemon and herbs. Its toasty oak and stone-fruit richness complement creamy pasta or risotto, while the saline finish is superb with oysters or grilled fish. For a lighter match, try goat’s-cheese salad with arugula and a crisp vinaigrette.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

Refined, cellar-worthy and iconic — a stunning gift for collectors and a luxurious choice for those who appreciate complex white wines with depth and provenance.

Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery

Order online for fast NZ delivery. Lovingly packed with a selection of stylish packaging and a personal message option to complete the perfect gift.