Johner Chardonnay 2019

From Gladstone, in the heart of the Wairarapa. Glowing golden lemon-yellow, with greenish edges in the glass. A fairly bold style, with ripe fruits on the nose – apricot, grapefruit, tangerine, fresh cut pear and toasted hazelnuts. Also a lovely floral note – like lemon blossom. Fresh, dry and medium bodied, the palate heads towards tropical flavours of melon, pineapple and nectarine. Lots of interest in layers here – there’s a light wisp of oak, a stony minerality and a rich, creamy texture. It’s nicely crafted – balanced and elegant, and above all it has a vibrancy that perhaps come from the bright acidity, and drives the wine through to a polished, harmonious finish. 92pts