MILLS REEF ELSPETH CHARDONNAY 2022

Winery notes (2022 Vintage)
"This distinguished Chardonnay exudes presence and finesse. The palate is wonderfully mouth-filling with intense aromas of orange blossom tropical fruits and butterscotch notes, all intertwined with peach and pomelo flavours in harmony with fine French oak seasoning, leading to a subtle butterscotch, apricot and cashew finish.

The grapes for this classical variety were sourced from our acclaimed single vineyard, Riverview, in the Maraekakaho district. The 2021/22 growing season in Hawkes Bay enjoyed a climate of consistently warm, clear, sunny days and uniform temperatures. This weather pattern allowed the grapes to develop perfectly and be harvested over 3 days, at optimal ripeness, from the 10th to 12th March.

The slightly elevated north facing vineyard sits in free draining, silty loam with underlying gravel which is ideally suited for this noble variety. The juice was barrel fermented, in 100% French oak hogsheads (300lt) with a chardonnay specific yeast, suited to promote the natural variety characteristics and terroir. Then, the wine underwent 35% malolactic fermentation to achieve an integrated buttery texture. Thereafter, the wine spent ten months in oak (35% new French) with frequent lees stirring for enhanced complexity. The final wine was composed from selected barrels and batches to achieve the desired wine style, before bottling under screwcap on the 23rd of June 2023."

Rated Excellent & 93/100 Cameron Douglas MS, November 2023 (2022 Vintage)
"A full-bodied expression with flavours of sweet California peach and yellow apple, there’s a mix of vanilla and baked nut, burnt butter and creamy-yoghurt. A delicious wine with immediate palate appeal from flavours of stone fruits and banana and vanilla to fine tannins and medium+ acid line. Well made, lengthy and ready to drink from 2024 through 2029."