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

While there is still room in the world for experts (despite Michael Gove 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-2030.

Press reviews:

Cameron Douglas (Master Sommelier): “A rich and nut-centric bouquet with smoky outlines then core flavours of peach and vanilla custard, grapefruit and nectarine. Firm and dry, a wine with tension and power, the fruit core for contrast and mix of tannins and acidity to deliver poise then length. A lovely example, youthful with plenty of development time ahead. Best drinking from later in 2026 through 2031+.” 94 points

Vinous (Rebecca Gibb MW): “The Marlborist’s 2023 Chardonnay is smart and saline, with a piercing line of acidity running through its textural core.  This has a barrel-fermented style that provides toasted nut flavours alongside the grapefruit-like apple fruit notes.  It is a shade more delicate than medium-bodied, with an element of richness on the mid-palate alongside delicate pastry notes pointing to its extended lees aging.  Thoughtfully constructed, this relatively new producer is forging a growing reputation. Drink now-2031.“ 91 points

Customer comments:

“Spectacular!” - Mr A.M.

“NZ Chardonnay v. good!” - Mr. M.G.

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

“We worked our way through several of the whites (the Marlborist being the favourite so far).” - Mr J.G.