From a relatively new winery (and label) established in the Upper Moutere region of Tasman in 2015. The palest silvery green, with just a touch of gold, in the glass. A wisp of smoky reductivity lingers between layers of grapefruit and lemon, and richer flavours of nectarine, apple crumble and toasted almond. A crisp and tight entry to the palate, where a a mouth-watering minerality holds sway. Look out for a succulent acidity too, accenting the citrus flavours and in particular a zesty, pithy quality. Hints of oak lie in deeper strata, and as the wine opens up, a creaminess swells and cossets the fruit notes. Well-balanced and with a long life ahead if cellared carefully. 94pts
Abel Tasman Chardonnay 2021
