A Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay. A golden-green colour in the glass. Scented with pear, grapefruit, lemon peel, peach, almond and fresh fennel. Should have broad appeal – it is well-balanced, with a nutty oak note, a bite of breezy acid, a layer of sweet baking spices, plus some richness and a creamy texture. At the back of the palate a tang of something like fresh yoghurt comes through, and the finish has the pithy dryness that I’ve noted in previous vintages of this wine. Very appealing. 93pts