Winemaker
Patrick Materman
- Discipline
- Winemaker
- Based in
- Riverlands, New Zealand
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.
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."
Career - Chief Winemaker — Pernod Ricard Winemakers NZ / Brancott Estate, Marlborough - Board member — New Zealand Winegrowers (2014–present) - Cellar hand — Montana Wine's Tamaki Winery, Auckland - Cellar hand — Pernod Ricard winery (from 1990) - Trainee winemaker — Pernod Ricard winery (until 1994) - Assistant winemaker — Pernod Ricard winery (from 1994) Education: Massey University
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 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).
