2020 Pegasus Bay Chardonnay, Waipara

Bright, fresh chardonnay with grapefruit, oyster shell, sizzled butter, struck flint and spicy oak flavours. Impressive wine with power and purity together with a lengthy finish. Should develop well with bottle age. 28 JUN 2023 Drink 2023–2030

94 points Bob Campbell MW therealreview.com

The colour is lemon/straw. On the nose there are aromas of citrus, as well as honeydew melon and some stone fruit (peach and nectarine). In addition there is a hint of struck match which adds complexity and a flinty minerality. There are also some underlying savoury notes (toast and brioche) as a result of the secondary fermentation and lees contact in the barrel. The palate is concentrated, however the earlier picking has resulted in a wine that remains elegant and focussed, with refreshing acidity and a lingering finish.