Portrait of Patrick Materman
i. Biography
His arc runs through Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc: from the first practical job after horticulture studies to Chief Winemaker titles, board service, and wines built around texture, ageability, and precision.
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Coming Up
Patrick Materman trained at Massey University before beginning a career that moved steadily through the cellar and into winemaking. He worked as cellar hand at Montana Wine's Tamaki Winery in Auckland, then as cellar hand at Pernod Ricard winery (from 1990), trainee winemaker at Pernod Ricard winery (until 1994), and assistant winemaker at Pernod Ricard winery (from 1994).
Where They Are Now
His work has also extended into national industry leadership. The through-line remains Sauvignon Blanc, especially its structure and capacity to develop. "We're looking at taking Sauvignon Blanc to the next level and how can we work on the ageability and the texture of Sauvignon Blanc," he has said. Of one wine, he added, "We've developed a wine with this amazing structural interest."
Signature
Patrick's signature wines include Flight Song, Letter Series, and Brancott Estate Chosen Rows.
In Their Words “I’ve lived and breathed the New Zealand wine industry for the past 25 years, and am enormously proud of the industry’s achievements.” “We're looking at taking Sauvignon Blanc to the next level and how can we work on the ageability and the texture of Sauvignon Blanc.”
Honors
Patrick's honors include New Zealand Winemaker of the Year.
FAQ
Asked of Patrick
What is Patrick Materman's current role?
As of 2026, Patrick Materman is Director of Winegrowing.
Where did Patrick Materman train or study?
Patrick Materman trained at Massey University.
What recognition has Patrick Materman received?
New Zealand Winemaker of the Year (2001).
The Sunday email
Read about winemakers like Patrick Materman in the Sunday email.
Every Sunday we send a lead story and up to four more about the chefs, winemakers, sommeliers and hoteliers behind the restaurants, bars, wineries and hotels we cover.
Recent stories
Free. One email a week, and you can unsubscribe from any issue.