Te Mata Estate Elston Chardonnay 2020

Sam Kim writes "96 pts. This stunning chardonnay is youthfully charming and enticing on the nose with white flesh stone fruit, lemon pith, savoury pastry, nougat and roasted cashew aromas. The palate displays outstanding weight and persistency with layers of delectable flavours backed by bright acidity. It’s creamy and mouth-coating with restrained elegance and grace."

Gary Walsh writes "94 pts. Ripe, peach and nectarine, a little exotic too, with spicy cinnamon/ nutmeg and cedar oak, floral notes and a little fennel frond. It’s rich in flavour, a subtle sizzle of hazelnuts in butter, but also flinty and firm, a wee bit of tropical fruit, but again firm and chalky on a long finish that has lime rind zing along with lemon butter richness. Lovely."

Huon Hooke writes "95 pts. A somewhat forward-developed, medium to full yellow colour. The bouquet is very rich and complex—roasted hazelnuts, buttered sweetcorn, skilfully integrated oak and no reduction. This all translates to a beautifully framed palate, which is tremendously deep and intense, powerful and long, with muti-faceted flavours that will only grow and build more detail if given more time. An outstanding full-bodied chardonnay with all the bells and whistles."

Bob Campbell MW writes "First impression is of a satisfyingly creamy texture, then bright and refreshing acidity kicks in and the wine gains energy and becomes more vibrant, even mouth-watering. Grapefruit, nectarine, saline-chalk and nutty yeast lees are evident. A good wine that’s competitively priced."

Michael Cooper writes "Estate -grown above the Havelock North winery and barrel-fermented, this full-bodied wine has
concentrated stonefruit flavours to the fore, with biscuity and mealy notes adding complexity, fresh acidity and a long, smooth, very harmonious finish."