Mahi – meaning ‘our work, our craft’ was launched for the 2001 harvest. Heading into their 26th vintage, they are at the vanguard of showing the diversity of Marlborough through their selection of single vineyard wines. These three Chardonnays from across the region show the individuality of Rapaura, Wairau Valley and Brancott. The winemaking is the same across the range – hand-picked grapes are pressed in whole-clusters and the juice run directly to barrel. The differences you’ll find in the wines highlight the unique vineyards not just through site (soil, aspect etc) but also the indigenous yeasts present on the fruit.
When owner Brian Bicknell talks about the 2024 vintage, he says – “I can quite comfortably say that this vintage looks like it will be in the top five I have ever worked”.
Mahi Alchemy Chardonnay 2024
A bright lemon-gold colour in the glass. Youthful and bold aromas of peach, pear, canteloupe, grapefruit, lemon peel, nutmeg and orange blossom. Quite textural and plush at first into the palate, then the acidity shows a bite and contrast – quite zesty and linear. The fruit is beautifully ripe, with some creamy lees influence adding a touch of shade to that brightness. More spice and depth from the oak sneaks in mid-palate, bringing complexity and breadth. The finish is dry, with good length. 92pts
Mahi Twin Valleys Chardonnay 2024
Translucently green-straw in colour, with a strident perfume that blooms with myriad fruits – nectarine, quince, kaffir lime, pineapple and greengage – then toasted baguette, cashew nut and oat biscuit. Brisk acidity and a touch of green herbal notes carry the palate at first. Much to find here beyond juicy fruits – a nibble of tannin and crushed shell mineral tones lie in layers through the palate. Fennel, chamomile and fresh hay. Finishing mouth-watering, with energy and clarity, into a dry, sustained length. 93pts
Mahi The Wrekin Chardonnay 2024
A touch of smoky earthiness kicks off the aromas on this single vineyard expression. Red apple, peach, chestnut, comice pear, lemon, nougat and white pepper on the nose. The palate has tension and finesse in equal parts, with great poise and detail. A pithy acidity balances the oak toast, which in turn echoes the smoke and nut notes of the perfume. Texture slides into view, offering a confident swaddle to the back of the palate, and calming any overt crispness. A touch of crème brulee here, before a finish with depth and length. 93pts
