Mission Estate the Oldest New Zealand winery established in 1851 by the French Marist religious order. The winery is New Zealand’s oldest winemaker. The Society of Mary was founded near Lyon in France. In 1938 a group of French Missionaries arrived and established Marist Mission in New Zealand and besides being a missionary order, the Fathers followed the tradition of fine wine-making. Grapes were planted to produce both sacramental and table wine. The first record of a commercial sale dates from 1870 when a parcel of mostly dry reds was sold.

Mission has never lost sight of its French Heritage, as over the years Brothers of the Order have traveled to France to study and learn viticultural and winemaking skills. Today, Mission Estate is one of Hawke’s Bay’s largest established wineries, with well-respected reputation in both the New Zealand and International markets as a producer of consistent quality, value for money wines.

Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 Won Bronze at NZ Wine Society Easter Show 2004. The colour is vibrant with a nose showing strong, ripe berry notes and hints of coffee and chocolate with a bit of spice and vanilla from the oak. The palate is soft and fruity with a rich, sweet mouth feel and good structure. Will Cellar well for up to 3 years, gaining in complexity while retaining its fruit characters.