2023 Rockburn Estate Chardonnay, Otago

A zingy and tangy nose with a streak of salinity. Complex but closed. The palate is likewise restrained and tightly wound with tart, salty mid-weight flavours of apple and citrus peel. Interestingly compact and racy chardonnay with a savoury, chewy finish of phenolics. Not a blockbuster, but it will age gracefully and remain fresh throughout its life 11 Oct 2024 Drink 2024–2034

93 points Stephen Wong MW therealreview.com

Rockburn Estate Chardonnay from Central Otago is a beautifully poised, quietly powerful and finely etched expression of the region’s cool alpine climate. Rockburn draws on vineyards in the Cromwell Basin and Parkburn, where glacial soils of schist, gravel, loess and ancient river sediments give Chardonnay its linear tension, bright acidity and subtle mineral edge. Warm, dry summer days and crisp nights allow slow, even ripening, shaping fruit with pristine purity and a natural sense of precision. The winemaking team keeps their touch deliberately gentle, favouring whole bunch pressing, wild ferment and a mix of French oak barriques and puncheons that bring savoury complexity without overshadowing the fruit.

The aromatics are elegant and finely layered, offering white peach, lemon zest and green apple alongside jasmine, almond skin and a cool wet stone nuance that feels distinctly Otago. As the wine breathes, hints of grapefruit pith, flint, chamomile and light pastry emerge, adding quiet sophistication and complexity.

On the palate the wine moves with clarity and balance. Stone fruit and citrus glide across a silken, subtly chalky texture, supported by crisp acidity that keeps the wine focused and refreshing. Flavours of peach, nashi pear, lemon curd and soft spice unfold in clean, steady layers, underscored by a gentle flinty mineral thread. The finish is long, pure and delicately savoury, with lingering citrus and almond notes. With three to six years in bottle, it will develop deeper hazelnut, honey and brioche nuance while retaining its fresh alpine backbone.

Perfect alongside grilled scallops, lemon roasted chicken, seafood linguine, vegetable risotto, sushi, soft cheeses, spring vegetables or creamy pastas with herbs. Serve lightly chilled to highlight its tension and lift.