2018 was a strong Chardonnay vintage in Hawke’s Bay – being exceptionally warm and dry although there was some late rain in March, which meant many picked early or were very selective. Fruit (100% clone 95) was hand harvested from ten year old vines off the Tin Shed vineyard located at 125 Gimblett Road in the Gimblett Gravels. Following gentle pressing, fermentation occurred in a brand new 500 litre French oak puncheon with Malolactic fermentation encouraged. The wine then spent 17 months on yeast lees before being filtered and bottled at the winery in September 2019 with no fining. Sealed with screw cap.
In the glass it shows as bright glossy with a deep to medium gold colour. Quite mature on the nose which is a bit of a surprise with aromas more tropical in nature and my mind goes to melon and grilled pineapple. On the palate it is rich and mouth coating with a powerful, concentrated, intense, ripe, primary peach & apricot flavour profile with secondary characters of apricot stone, cardamom and a hint of nutmeg. The acidity is vibrant with a prolonged finish. Drinking well now, this still has many years ahead. 92pts
