Although made at the Matahiwi winery in Wairarapa, the grapes for this 2020 Chardonnay are from Hawke’s Bay. An excellent vintage and memorable as the COVID-hit harvest. A medium golden-lemon yellow in the glass, perfumed with plush fruit and citrus blossom on the nose. Nectarine, grapefruit, honeydew and lemon curd all feature alongside hay, vanilla, tarragon and nutmeg aromas. Upfront and lively, with plenty of easy to enjoy, ripe flavours. A nice seasoning of oak, and enough textural qualities to make you think this is costing a good deal more than the $20(ish) price tag. Soft, lingering finish. 90pts