From a boutique family-run winery and label in the Upper Moutere region of Tasman. A translucent, very pale steely green colour in the glass. A wisp of smoky funk leads the bouquet – lightly reductive and characterful. Then burnt butter, white peach, apple, grapefruit pith, oatmeal biscuit, sweet lemon and nougat. A frisson of energy opens the palate, where energy, focus and drive cross paths. Fresh acidity is the driver – succulent and lifting, before the palte widens into snippets of minerality, oak toast and spice, green olive and nettle savouriness, and a silky texture to bring things down again. From a quiet voice to quite a symphony – in one glass. Has developed very well since tasting it shortly after bottling, and ought to cellar well. 95pts
Abel Tasman Chardonnay 2022
