Chardonnay from New Zealand - Hawke's Bay
Review Date : 09-Oct-2023
Bright, pale yellow-gold, even colour throughout. The bouquet is enticing and layered, with aromas of stonefruit, citrus, delicate floral, sweet spice and integrated nutty elements. Full-bodied, aromas of apricot, lemon sherbet and lemon curd melded with roasted hazelnut, brown butter and sweet spice. The acidity is tangy with tension and drive, cutting through a weighty palate and lending a lengthy finish with a hint of saline and delicate spice. This Chardonnay is complex and rich with integrated elements, and acid precision drives a lasting finish. Match with crayfish ravioli and king mushrooms over the next 10 years. Fruit from 80% Sea vineyard in Te Awanga, 20% Earth vineyard in Bridge Pa, 80% clone 12, 20% Mendoza, whole bunch pressed to barrel, fermented to 14% alc, partial MLF. Aged 12 months in barrel, 40% new oak, occasional stirring, further 5 months in tank rested on light lees. 110 cases produced. 19.5/20 (97 pts) Oct 2023 RRP $95
