Grape Variety: 100% Chardonnay

Growing Region: Marlborough, New Zealand

Owner/ Winemaker: Chris Gambitsis

TASTING NOTE:
The 2010 Raptor Chardonnay was sourced from two very special sites. Two thirds of the fruit come from Peter and Ann Reeds vineyard in the Wairau Valley (and picked on the 1st of April) and one third from Hamish and Fiona Turners Awatere vineyard site (picked on the 18th of April).

After crushing and a light pressing the juice was barrel fermented in a mixture of new and one year old French oak barrels. Two thirds of the barrels were allowed to go through a 'wild ferment' without the inoculation of a cultured yeast. Full malolactic fermentation followed with 10 months maturing on light lees before blending and bottling in March 2011.

The result is a full bodied Marlborough Chardonnay with aromas of white peach, nectarine and underlying hints of nuts and spice. The palate is full and at the same time elegant and creamy with well balanced lively acidity that leads to a bright and persistent finish. Serve at 13-14C.

CELLARING POTENTIAL:
Drinking perfectly well this coming summer; and will age for 4-5 years.

SUGGESTED FOOD MATCHES:
Perfect wine match with fresh chicken fettuccini, smoked ham and creamy cheeses, enjoy.

Gold Medal - NZ International Wine Comp. 2011.