A Eskdale Chardonnay, from a label that I’ve kept an eye on since my first foray to Hawke’s Bay twenty years ago. Bright, pale lemon with a golden hue in the glass. Crisp and fresh on the nose, building with peach, red apple, grapefruit and lemon peel, towards a smoky, almond and honeysuckle lift. A busy rush of acidity moves into the generous mid palate with succulent fruit and a toasty oak richness vie for attention. Broad, plush and well-rounded. Old school meets modern chardonnay. A touch of baking spice through the mellow, soft texture, and into the sweetening finish. 90pts.