GOLD MEDAL | NZIWS 2024
FIVE STARS 95/100 | Sam Kim, Wine Orbit - "Elegant and complex"
94/100 | Candice Chow, Raymond Chan Wine Reviews
93/100 'Excellent' | Cameron Douglas MS
This is glorious wine. Vinted in a thoroughly modern style, this 2023 single vineyard release blends outright power with tremendous palate detail and, with hand on hearts, we can say that our in-house team of chardonnay freaks are simply besotted with it. Flinty, struck match characters add interest on the nose which otherwise sings with classic barrel-fermented notes - while a whopping 30% new oak adds depth and spice on the palate. Regional peach and grapefruit flavours dominate, until fresh acidity snaps you back to attention. Some oak spice lingers on the palate but the lasting impression is one of balance and restraint.
It's already in brilliant form but can be cellared over the coming 7-8 years. A magnificent effort from the Rapuara Springs vineyard and winery teams. Bravo!
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The winery writes "Complex and enticing grapefruit, citrus and white peach characters are complemented by struck-flint, spice and vanilla. In the glass the wine is loaded with texture. Stone fruit and citrus are underpinned by a flinty mineral flavour and toasty complexity."
Sam Kim, Wine Orbit writes "Elegant and complex, the bouquet shows lemon pith, nectarine, oatmeal, cashew and nougat notes with a hint of gun smoke overtone. The palate delivers excellent concentration and fine flow, wonderfully structured by bright acidity. Harmonious and restrained with a prolonged, structured finish."
Cameron Douglas MS writes "Aromas and flavours of peach and apple custard, vanilla spice and sweet oak. A full-bodied satin textured wine touches the palate with contrasting acidity, fine wood tannins with a touch of lees battonage-like nuttiness. Fruit flavours mirror the bouquet with a rich texture and lengthy finish this wine will please many a Chardonnay fan. Best drinking from day of purchase through 2029."
Candice Chow writes "Bright, even, pale yellow. This has an elegant bouquet with aromas of citrus, peach, gunflint, vanilla custard and delicate spice. Medium-full bodied, aromas of grapefruit, lemon curd and peach underlined by flint, custard, vanilla and toasted barrel spices. The fruit has ripeness and presence, marrying the barrel fermentation complexity and displaying integrated layers. Enlivening acidity carries excellent length and balance. This Chardonnay shows power yet is elegant and approachable and features lush fruit and toasty details."
Stock Level: | High |
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Vintage: | 2023 |
Volume: | 750ML |
Alcohol: | 14% |
Seal Type: | Screwcap |