From what is reported as a great year – this is the latest in the line of Helio Chardonnays from Hawke’s Bay that I have reviewed since their inception with the 2019 vintage.
A bright golden green colour in the glass. The bouquet is varietally pure Chardonnay, with grapefruit, satsuma, apricot, greengage, preserved lemon and crushed green herbs. More peach, even some charred pineapple comes through on the palate – ripe and generous. There’s a bright and saline acidity – with a clean line through the centre, giving plenty of direct, energetic drive. A hint of smoky toast shows at finish, but this is wine of balance and some power. The finish is persistent and salivating. 95pts
