The fruit is off 29 year old vines and some of the newer plantings from the Estate’s coastal vineyard in Te Awanga. Grapes are hand picked then whole bunch pressed, with the free run juice fermented mainly in new French oak, with the rest in one year (and older) French oak barriques. Under screwcap. A bright, vibrant, medium to deep golden colour in the glass. Has developed lovely complexity on the nose – more delicate citrus blossom than primary fruit and certainly no vestiges of oak. Just a hint of Crème brûlée and a touch of sage. This flows to the mouthfeel which is creamy yet sits lightly on the palate. I am taken to a top white burgundy but with a bit more fruit. There is an elegant purity to the flavours of nectarine and white peach. Every component is completely harmonious. Lingering finish that has acidity that rolls across the full length of the palate in waves. Probably the best Clearview Chardonnay I have had. Has evolved since I last had 2 years ago and would say is at the peak now. 96pts
Clearview Estate Reserve Chardonnay 2016
