2022 Te Kairanga John Martin Chardonnay, Martinborough

A very linear and mineral-edged chardonnay with aromas of lime peel, lemon blossoms, grapefruit and pastry. The medium-bodied palate has a racy acidity and an underlying tension and power that will unravel nicely with time in bottle. Well-constructed. Drink or hold.

93 points jamessuckling.com

A complex and quite mineral chardonnay with a crisper edge to the otherwise ripe stone-fruit and nutty flavours trimmed in subtle spice and a hint of honey. The mid-weight palate is energetic and slightly creamy, building towards the sappy finish where cashew and seashell flavours merge. Slightly austere currently, this Chablisien wine will gain more weight and nuttiness with time in bottle 16 Feb 2025 Drink 2026–2033

93 points Stephen Wong MW therealreview.com

Te Kairanga John Martin Chardonnay from Martinborough is a refined and expressive cool-climate white that pays tribute to the region’s founding settler and the winery’s namesake, John Martin. Crafted from hand-selected parcels on the Te Kairanga estate, this Chardonnay captures the elegance, texture and quiet power that Martinborough does so well, thanks to its cool nights, long ripening season, and ancient riverbed soils.

Winemaker John Kavanagh treats the fruit with a deft touch. Hand-picked grapes are whole-bunch pressed and wild fermented in French oak barriques, with partial malolactic fermentation and extended lees ageing to enhance mouthfeel and complexity. The result is a wine of finesse and structure, marrying purity of fruit with restrained oak influence.

On the nose, it opens with white peach, lemon curd and ripe nectarine, layered with notes of toasted cashew, flint and subtle struck match. The palate is vibrant and textural, showing grapefruit and stone fruit alongside savoury oak spice and a long, mineral-driven finish. There's a lovely balance between richness and tension, making it both immediately enjoyable and worthy of cellaring.

Pair with grilled lobster, roast chicken with tarragon and lemon, or a creamy leek and mushroom tart. It also matches beautifully with soft cheeses or seared scallops. Enjoy now for its clarity and vibrancy, or cellar for 5 to 8 years as it evolves more savoury complexity.