The Te Mata Estate Bullnose Syrah is one of New Zealand’s most iconic red wines — a benchmark of Hawke’s Bay craftsmanship and elegance. From the region’s finest old red iron soils, this Syrah exudes purity, power and grace. Named after an early ‘Bullnose’ Morris Cowley car, it captures the same sense of refinement and timeless style that defines Te Mata Estate’s long-standing reputation for excellence.
Tasting Notes & Experience
A striking crimson with a vivid purple hue, Bullnose Syrah opens with perfumed florals, plum, cinnamon, violet, raspberry and cherry. The palate flows seamlessly with dark plum and spice wrapped in fine, cashmere-like tannins. Beautifully balanced, it finishes long, warm and caressing — an elegant, satisfying expression of Hawke’s Bay Syrah.
Key Details
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Winery: Te Mata Estate
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Varietal: Syrah
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Region: Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand
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Vintage: 2023
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ABV: 13.5%
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Volume: 750ml
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Other: Sustainable Winegrowing
Craftsmanship & Story
Established in 1896, Te Mata Estate is New Zealand’s oldest winery and remains family-owned. The Bullnose vineyard, planted in 1990, lies on ancient iron-rich soils in Bridge Pa and Gimblett Gravels. Hand-harvested fruit is fermented in small lots, with extended maceration and 13 months’ maturation in French oak barriques. The result is a Syrah of striking fragrance, supple texture, and enduring balance — a true reflection of Te Mata’s precision and heritage winemaking.
Special Features
Named after the early “Bullnose” Morris Cowley car, this wine’s emblem of the bull references strength and refinement. A hallmark of Hawke’s Bay terroir, Bullnose Syrah combines floral perfume, pepper spice, and mineral depth, representing the height of New Zealand Syrah craftsmanship. Its cellaring potential and silky texture make it one of the nation’s most collectible wines.
Recognition & Accolades
Consistently acclaimed by leading critics across vintages:
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98/100 Points & 5 Stars – Bob Campbell MW, The Real Review (2023 vintage)
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97/100 Points & 5 Stars – Sam Kim, Wine Orbit (2023 vintage)
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5 Stars – Michael Cooper, Buyer’s Guide (2023 vintage)
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94/100 Points & Top Rank – Stephen Wong MW, The Real Review (2023 vintage)
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94/100 Points – Erin Larkin, Wine Advocate (2023 vintage)
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99/100 Points & 5 Stars – Sam Kim, Wine Orbit (2021 vintage)
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96/100 Points – James Suckling (2021 vintage)
Such accolades confirm Bullnose as one of New Zealand’s most revered Syrahs — a wine of grace, longevity and power delivered with subtlety.
Food Pairings
Elegant and peppery, the Bullnose Syrah is superb with herb-crusted lamb, peppercorn-crusted steak, or slow-cooked venison. Its lifted spice and supple tannins enhance chargrilled vegetables, mushroom risotto, or Mediterranean dishes with rosemary and black olives. For a refined finish, pair it with aged cheeses like parmesan or smoked gouda, or even dark chocolate to highlight its silky depth.
Perfect for Gifting or Sipping
One of New Zealand’s most collectible Syrahs, Te Mata Bullnose combines heritage, elegance, and power. A perfect gift or cellar addition, offering immediate allure and remarkable ageing potential.
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.