2022 Palliser Estate Single Vineyard Om Santi Chardonnay, Wairarapa Martinborough

This is an exercise in power and balance. It's off the 100% organic Om Santi vineyard utilising clones 15 and 95. It has lovely length and mouth-feel, with a really fine line of acidity running through it. The flavours are full and focused, with a core of nectarine, grapefruit, nougat and a tingly, tangy minerality. A very classy chardonnay indeed. 02 Oct 2023 Drink 2023–2033

96 points Aaron Brasher therealreview.com

Complex, enticing and familiar with a bouquet of wild orchard fruits, citrus pith and a complex leesy barrel spice combination. Wood smoke and vanilla, some burnt butter and baked cashew nut qualities add complexity and depth. Excellent weight and texture on the palate, flavours of citrus zest and fresh white peaches, apple and barrel spices layer in for complexity and depth. A delicious wine with texture, length and excellent mouthfeel. It’s floral and charming, weighty and varietal. Best drinking from 2025 through 2033+.

95 points camdouglasms.com

Palliser Estate Single Vineyard Om Santi Chardonnay is a refined and quietly powerful wine from the celebrated Martinborough subregion in Wairarapa. Grown in the Om Santi vineyard, a site known for its deep alluvial gravels and cool climate influence from the southern coast, this Chardonnay captures elegance, minerality and a beautifully layered palate.

Winemaker Guy McMaster takes a hands-on, site-driven approach, allowing the vineyard to speak through minimal intervention. The fruit is hand-picked, whole bunch pressed, and wild fermented in French oak, around 30 percent new. Full malolactic fermentation and extended time on lees add richness and complexity without overshadowing the wine's bright core of acidity.

In the glass, it opens with aromas of white peach, lemon curd, struck flint and roasted cashew. The palate is sleek and precise, delivering citrus peel, stone fruit and subtle oak spice, wrapped in a fine mineral line. There's a saline edge and a creamy yet taut texture that gives the wine structure and finesse.

Pair with grilled lobster, chicken with tarragon and lemon butter, or a simple dish of saffron risotto with scallops. Aged comté or triple cream cheese also work wonderfully. Drink now for its vibrant tension or cellar for 5 to 7 years to reveal more savoury depth and complexity.