Superbly rich but not overblown, with arrestingly intense flavours enlivened with fine acidity, this multi-faceted Nelson wine enjoys a reputation second to none among New Zealand Chardonnays. Grown in clay soils threaded with gravel at Upper Moutere, it is hand-harvested from mature vines, fermented with indigenous yeasts, and lees-aged, with regular stirring, for a year in French oak barriques. The 2014 vintage (5*) is a full-bodied, highly refined wine with ripe grapefruit and peach flavours, finely integrated oak (only 11 per cent new, compared to at least 25 per cent in past vintages), and a tight, minerally, slightly mealy and buttery finish. A weighty, seamless wine, already approachable, it has obvious cellaring potential; open 2017+.
Details
Type: White Wines
Variety: Chardonnay
Vintage: 2014
Overall Rating for All Vintages Tasted: ★★★★★ – 5 Stars
Price: $64 NZD
Sweetness: DRY
Value for Money: AV
Buyer’s Guide Edition: 2016
This wine is a Super Classic.
When to drink: 2017