From their ‘Seasonal’ range, comes a chardonnay from Crownthorpe Clone 15 fruit. Classic, pale lemon yellow-green colour, with citrus flower, gunflint roast almond and peach aromas on the nose. A zesty acidity gives great drive through a palate of nectarine, apple strudel, grapefruit and popcorn. Clean, taut and powerful. Both the oak and the lees-stirring influences are well integrated and balanced, showing a cashew and biscuit toastiness. It is rich, fruit-focussed and has a linear concentration. The finish delivers long and sweetening. 92pts. A classic inland HB chardonnay from a slightly unlikely source in West Auckland.
The Hunting Lodge Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay 2018
