“This is one for those who like their Chardonnays with pizzazz.” - Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous

While there is still room in the world for experts (despite our very own Lord Chancellor once announcing that “the people of this country have had enough of them”), we’d like to offer an expert opinion, based on qualified, empirical research, and state that this is a very good value Chardonnay. Contentious stuff, I know, but it had to be said. It’s easily on a par with those wonderful Kumeu River ‘Single Vineyard’ Chardonnays, which, you don’t need an expert to tell you, are the benchmark for New Zealand.

It’s lean, yet full-flavoured, with lime and toasted hazelnut to the fore and a sense of chalky cool that fleshes out the body and gives it a richness, without adding weight. If New Zealand Chardonnay isn’t the best value alternative to fine white Burgundy, then I don’t know what is, so I will have to ask an expert. 13% alc. Drink now-2028.

Press reviews:

Cameron Douglas (Master Sommelier): “An attractive bouquet, youthful, complex and new with aromas of nectarine and apricot, red apple and peach. Barrel spice and a gentle wood smoke quality add complexity and breadth. Dry with plenty of weight housed in a satin-cream texture and contrasted by fine tannins and acidity. As the wine opens out on the palate the flavours of fruit and wood spice along with lees becomes a little louder. A fleshy and salivating finish. Best drinking from late 2024 through 2029.” 94 points

The Wine Advocate: “The 2022 Chardonnay is lacy and fine. It speaks of white peach and white pepper, garden rose and a hint of elderflower, green apple and Golden Delicious apple. Texture and acid are in perfect harmony here; they weave in and out of each other as the wine moves over the palate. The picking this harvest happened in a rush prior to a significant rain event, and the team were assisted by family and friends to get this done. Drink now-2032.“ 94 points

Customer comments:

“Spectacular!” - Mr A.M.

“NZ Chardonnay v. good!” - Mr. M.G.

“This is incredible! Another twelve please.” - Mr I.S.