Mora Chardonnay 2023

This Central Otago Chardonnay used fruit from the Eden Vineyard in Pisa and Cairnmuir Vineyard in Bannockburn (50% from each). A pale lemon-gold colour in the glass. Inviting and fresh on the nose, with scents of peach, lemon curd, wood smoke, green apple, lime zest, cardamom and a burst of warm honeysuckle florals. Quite textured on the palate, with a plushness and silkiness blanketing the ripe fruit. Toasty barrel spice, fine tannin and bright acidity form the spine in the background, allowing the rounded creaminess centre stage. A little ‘old school’ and all good for that character and style – it will have its fans. 92pts