Grape Variety: 100% Chardonnay

Growing Region: Martinborough, New Zealand

Chief Winemaker: Roger Parkinson

TASTING NOTE:
The name and logo for this wine comes from the legend that the 3 main hills that you look at from the winery were formed by the three canoes of the famed Polynesian explorer 'Kupe', which were carried inland by a huge earthquake and came to rest in the valley behind Martinborough. And as everyone knows, 3 canoes won't get very far without, yes you guessed - 'Three Paddles'.

Chardonnay is a wine that is so moldable, has many faces and expressions, but one must remember it will only truly show something special if the winemaker respects this grape and knows exactly what they want to do well before they pick the grapes. Then comes the difficult path, knowing when to stick to your direction for the vintage or to listen to what the grapes tell you while going through the winemaking process and working with, not against the fruit. Roger has this skill in bucket loads and even though this range is an early drinking style, forward, fresh and with a clean finish. The wines will stack up against a wide variety on NZ cuisine over the coming summer months.

A blend of 3 vineyard sites, this wine shows a pale gold colour in the glass Both the bouquet and the palate exhibit typical regional characteristics of white peach and nectarine with notes of vanilla and spice. The wine is rich and intense with a persistent yet soft finish. Serve at 12-14C.

CELLARING POTENTIAL:
Drinking perfectly well this summer; and over the next 2-3.

SUGGESTED FOOD MATCHES:
Perfect wine match with lamb or white meat and richer seafood dishes like Crayfish, enjoy.

A must have wine in every batch or picnic hamper this summer.