A wine from a single vineyard in Hawke’s Bay, that has been a part of this label’s ‘icon’ offerings for many years, and is perhaps one of only a few vineyards that are well-known enough to really command a premium price by labelling as such. A pale straw-green colour in the glass. The bouquet is complex, led by a fruit basket array of peach, melon, grapefruit, satsuma and lemon. Add in cashew nut, cardamom, nutmeg, tarragon and a whisper of struck match reductivity, and the nose is broad and inviting. Full-bodied and dry to taste, with the warm edge of oak adding to the spiciness. Enough acidity to keep things turning over, and a mealy texture gives more depth to an already expansive palate. A good prospect for cellaring, but drinks well now. 93pts
Villa Maria Keltern Chardonnay 2024
