Discover the elegance of a single vineyard Chardonnay from Marlborough's acclaimed Taylors Pass Vineyard. Grown on stony soils beside the Awatere River, this wine is shaped by the region's dry climate, cool coastal breezes, and prolonged sunshine hours. The unique terroir, with its free-draining soils and greywacke river stones, creates the perfect environment for slow, even ripening, allowing for a true expression of fruit purity and complexity. Handcrafted with meticulous attention, this Chardonnay is 100% barrel fermented-almost half through wild fermentation-then matured on lees to add depth and texture. The result is a sophisticated, mineral-driven Chardonnay that encapsulates the character of its vineyard.
Tasting Notes
Appearance:
Bright and luminous with a pale golden hue, this Chardonnay reflects the clarity and vibrancy of Marlborough's clean environment.
Nose:
Complex and evocative aromas leap from the glass: savoury notes of brioche and gun-smoke intertwine with fresh citrus-predominantly ripe lemon rind-and an undercurrent of stony minerality. Subtle hints of ripe fig and quince reveal themselves with a swirl, lending further intrigue and depth.
Palate:
Precision and restraint define the palate, offering layered flavours of grapefruit, fig, and quince complemented by the nuttiness of roasted almonds. The wine's mineral core recalls the stony vineyard, while a taut, focused acidity delivers freshness and drive. The creamy texture derived from lees ageing is perfectly balanced, creating an elegant profile that is both crisp and richly complex.
Finish:
The finish is long and refined, with the wine's acidity carrying subtle citrus and mineral nuances all the way through to a savoury, palate-cleansing close. The delicate integration of oak and persistent minerality ensure a memorable final impression.
Ideal for culinary pairings, this Marlborough Chardonnay matches beautifully with pan fried fish cheeks in lemon butter or sauteed scallops, highlighting its versatility and finesse at the table.
