Zaria are a boutique Hawke's Bay producer with winemaker Bryce Edmonds at the helm. They take a minimal intervention approach to winemaking and their latest releases are vibrant, flavour-packed renditions of classic Hawke's Bay wines.
Their 2021 chardonnay is vinted from a mix of Bridge Pa fruit from their Lesley's Vineyard block, along with fruit from the Ohiti and Te Awanga sub regions. It was 100% hand-picked and whole-bunch pressed, with all of the juice going into barrels (20% new) for fermentation. Stonefruit and citrus notes dominate the palate, with secondary brioche characters playing a supporting role. The new oak makes an appearance, but it doesn't take over. Drinking well now but give it a few years in the cellar and those characters will develop further. Highly recommended.
The winery writes "The idea was to have a little bit of all the yummy things that make Chardonnay great. Plenty of grapefruit, melon and citrus, along with a little of the brioche/buttery component from the secondary ferment. Enough new oak to bring texture without bashing you over the head with a 2x4 plank. Time will reward this wine as all these components meld together."
Stock Level: | High |
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Vintage: | 2021 |
Volume: | 750ML |
Alcohol: | 14. |
Seal Type: | Screwcap |