Grape Variety: 100% Chardonnay

Growing Region: Moutere - Nelson, New Zealand

Owner / Winemaker: Patrick Stowe

TASTING NOTE:
Is the Nelson wine region on your list of favourite places to find wine solutions to food matches? If not - I encourage you to revisit in person or with your taste buds - as you will be happily reminded how exciting the wines can be - and this Chardonnay may even move into your top wine choices. This 2011 Nelson Chardonnay has a dynamic personality that will not only dance on your taste buds, but will have you thinking which is you favourite style.

All of the fruit for this wine was sourced from the Moutere Hills appellation. The vines enjoy a microclimate in a warm bowl which allows for earlier ripening, and protection from wind and frost and more summer sun and heat. The grapes were hand-picked and whole-bunch pressed, then fermentation took place naturally in 100% French oak barriques. The wine was carefully and routinely barrel-stirred on its lees for approx 11 months.

In the glass you have a bright Nelson summer glow. On the nose there are citrus and apple characters with a hint of mineral notes. On the palate the wine is fresh and vibrant; with the ripe white-flesh fruits and integrated oak resulting in smooth round and generous mouth feel. The wine is nicely layered with hazelnut and toasted oak characters shining through giving the wine an impressive finish. Chill slightly and serve at 10-12C.

CELLARING POTENTIAL:
Drinking perfectly well this season; and over the coming 4-5 years.

SUGGESTED FOOD MATCHES:
Perfect wine match with poultry, pork, seafood chowder and full flavoured pasta dishes, enjoy.

Make sure you don't miss out on this wine.