EASTHOPE HOME BLOCK CHARDONNAY 2024

Winery notes (2024 Vintage)
"Dry farmed, hand-picked, 100% whole bunch pressed, bottled on site. Our ‘Home Block’ Vineyard is nestled in the inland sub-district of Mangatahi, perched at 165 meters above sea level with a gentle 6-degree northward tilt. The deep red gravel soils provide the perfect foundation for cultivating exceptional Chardonnay, yielding wines of remarkable depth and character.

A prolonged winter delayed budburst, while a cool, windy spring further challenged the vines, leading to poor fruit set and exceptionally low yields. However, the warm, dry summer that followed nurtured a stunning vintage of ripe, intensely concentrated fruit.

Classic aromas of peaches and cream take centre stage, complemented by hints of roasted hazelnut and acacia. The palate is rich and layered, showcasing ripe fruit flavours, a touch of nougat, and a long, lingering finish. This Chardonnay is delightful on its own yet also pairs beautifully with your favourite seafood or chicken dishes."

95/100 David Walker Bell, WineFolio.co.nz, May 2025 (2024 Vintage)
"The colour is very light, but it is quite bold on the nose. Lemon, dried pineapple, popcorn, nectarine, toasty oak and spices galore. Intense and concentrated into the palate, with a fine balance across juice, oak and acidity. A very well-made example, and the time you can still taste it after the finish hints at a long life ahead."