Tasted at the Cellar Door, in Rapaura – this is a Marlborough Chardonnay from the pioneering Hunter’s label. A touch of struck-match flint to the aromas, overlaid on peach, grapefruit and citrus, but quite reticent and laid back on the nose. Comes alive in the palate, with a turn towards richness led by french oak that is toasty and nutty. Good weight and plenty of structure from both that oak and acidity once you’re in. Texture develops and there is a layer of pithy, phenolic tannin that is mouth-filling and complex. Well made and characterful. 92pts
Hunter’s Offshoot Chardonnay 2023
