Strapping yet delicate, richly flavoured yet subtle, this sophisticated North Canterbury wine is one of the country's best Chardonnays grown south of Marlborough. Muscular and taut, it typically offers a seamless array of fresh, crisp, citrusy, biscuity, complex flavours and great concentration and length. Estate-grown at Waipara, it is based on ungrafted, Mendoza-clone vines (over 30 years old), hand-picked and given lengthy oak aging (the 2019 vintage was fermented and lees-aged for a year in French oak puncheons, 30 per cent new). The 2019 vintage (5*) is bright, light yellow/green, with a very fragrant, complex bouquet. Mouthfilling, it is concentrated, with vibrant, peachy, mealy flavours, oak complexity, fresh acidity and the structure to mature well. Full of personality, it should be at its best 2023+.
Details
Type: White Wines
Variety: Chardonnay
Vintage: 2019
Overall Rating for All Vintages Tasted: ★★★★★ – 5 Stars
Price: $45 NZD
Sweetness: DRY
Value for Money: AV
This wine is a Super Classic.
When to drink: 2023
Past Vintages:
Vintage: 2019; Winemaker’s Rating: 5/7; When to Drink: 22 – 27
Vintage: 2018; Winemaker’s Rating: 6/7; When to Drink: 22 – 27
Vintage: 2017; Winemaker’s Rating: 6/7; When to Drink: 22 – 29
Vintage: 2016; Winemaker’s Rating: 6/7; When to Drink: 22 – 28
Vintage: 2015; Winemaker’s Rating: 6/7; When to Drink: 22 – 27
Vintage: 2014; Winemaker’s Rating: 5/7; When to Drink: 22 – 23
Vintage: 2013; Winemaker’s Rating: 7/7; When to Drink: 22 – 23
Vintage: 2012; Winemaker’s Rating: 6/7; When to Drink: 22 – 24
Vintage: 2011; Winemaker’s Rating: 6/7; When to Drink: 22 – 23
Vintage: 2010; Winemaker’s Rating: 6/7; When to Drink: P – P
Notes: WR provided by wineries. P = Peaked.
Reviewed March 2022