Matawhero Wines: Celebrating 50 years of Gisborne winemaking innovation
Pioneering Gisborne winery Matawhero Wines is marking half a century of influence in New Zealand's modern wine story.
Gisborne has hosted a number of overseas visitors who have heaped praise on the region’s wines, among them sommeliers and wine writers, Roger Jones, Dane Campbell, and Rebecca Leung brought here by New Zealand Winegrowers.
“All three considered Gisborne wines to be world-class and they challenged wineries to get their brands out there to show the world exactly what this region is all about,” said Gisborne Winegrowers’ Association president, Al Knight.
UK wine writer and wine judge Roger Jones gave a glowing
review about his tastings of aromatics.
“Once recognised as the capital of New Zealand Chardonnay, this secluded wine region is a bustling seaside gem producing an array of wine varieties at a super-league level,” said Jones, a Michelin-star chef who owns the acclaimed restaurant The Harrow at Little Bedwyn.
“Some of the wines I tasted were exceptional, absolutely amazing. Especially the varieties away from the ‘norm’ like Viognier, Gewurztraminer, Marsanne and Arneis.They are world class.”
At least 10 would make his preferred list, he said.
The Chardonnays he tasted were also “exceptional . . . mind-bogglingly-brilliant is how I would describe them”.
