2023 Dog Point Chardonnay Organic, Marlborough

A precise, driven and vibrant chardonnay with aromas of lemons, sweet spices, flint and brioche. Medium-bodied with bright acidity. So focused, with plenty of drive and patina on the palate. Succulent and tactile, with a long, bright finish. Good value. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold. Screw cap.

95 points jamessuckling.com

Evident smoke and savoury reduction supported by nutty, toasty oak and crisp, tangy cool-climate fruit: green apple, lime and white pepper. The dense, mid-weight flavours are compact and unevolved currently, underpinned by lip-smacking acidity and dusty, cinnamon oak tannins. A suggestion of creamy yoghurt is met by firm phenolics on the finish. It could be approached now but will be better in a year or two 12 Aug 2025 Drink 2026–2036

93 points Stephen Wong MW therealreview.com

From organically farmed vineyards in the Wairau Valley, Dog Point Chardonnay offers a compelling expression of Marlborough’s evolving white wine identity. Founded by Ivan Sutherland and James Healy, pioneers of the region’s early wine story, Dog Point has earned a cult following for wines shaped by wild fermentation, restrained oak and minimal intervention. The estate’s focus on vine age and thoughtful vineyard work results in Chardonnay that combines texture, freshness and mineral complexity.

A pale lemon gold with subtle green reflections shimmers in the glass. Aromas unfold with white nectarine, grapefruit and ripe citrus layered with toasted almond, flint and a delicate smoky reduction. There is an immediate sense of depth and seriousness to the bouquet, quietly layered and refined.

The palate is finely structured and textural, delivering citrus and stone fruit flavours framed by vibrant acidity and a firm mineral backbone. Nuances of brioche, hazelnut and saline freshness build through the mid palate, leading to a long, mouthwatering finish that feels both powerful and precise. This organic Chardonnay will reward patient cellaring over eight to twelve years, developing honeyed richness, savoury complexity and nutty depth.

Butter roasted chicken carved slowly at the table, grilled lobster with lemon and herbs, or a rich mushroom tart shared as conversation drifts into the night. A vinyl spin of The National High Violet or something atmospheric from Bon Iver setting the tone, the wine bringing calm focus and quiet intensity to the evening.