The first Central Otago Chardonnay release from this excellent producer – the fruit coming from the Highgrange Vineyard, an elevated site on Mt. Pisa; after a few vintages of releasing their Chardonnay from Waitaki. It is also the 5th vintage of Valli’s canine charity series – this one celebrates the accomplishments of Mawson, a Stewart Island/Rakiura predator detection dog.
A pale golden-green colour in the glass. Quite a refined bouquet – somewhat reticent, although it opens out very nicely with an introduction of air – I’d recommend decanting this young wine. The perfume sits in the citrus spectrum, with crisp apple, crushed shell, tarragon and lemon blossom notes as well. A brisk, bright acidity gives great line and flow through the palate, with a spotlight on that zesty fruit. Broadening as you go, with a smudge of leesy texture, then into a finish of excellent length and purity. 94pts
