A Hawke’s Bay wine, from an inland, elevated vineyard that I have always rated for Chardonnay. A shining pale golden green in the glass, and with bright aromas of nectarine, grapefruit and lemon curd, overlaid with a smoky, struck match reductivity. Nicely structured into the palate – concentrated and vivacious, with a core of toasted oak influence, fresh citrus-laden acidity, and generous depth of flavours. Marzipan, spice and cashew butter start to fill out the wine as it eases into a mouth-filling, luxuriant texture. Some drying minerality to the lengthy finish too. A classic example of what Hawke’s Bay is doing so well with Chardonnay. 93pts
Riverview Chardonnay 2015
