There are many chardonnay aficionados out there looking for something they may not have come across before. Try out these beauties and be rewarded.
Equinox Waipara Hill Chardonnay - 2013
From the home vineyard in the Waipara Valley, a wine designed for cellaring for a decade, but already drinking beautifully. A lovely pale yellow colour with aromas of lemon curd and hazelnuts. You can taste the white peach, nougat and citrus along with a
lingering mealy, buttery finish. This wine is nicely weighted, smooth and has a tight finish thanks to a lively fresh acidity. Perfect with loin of pork.
$35
Sherwood Estate Signature Family Chardonnay - 2012
Another fine example of a great wine from Waipara, North Canterbury, produced from selected parcels of fruit grown on Sherwoods' 12ha acres Stirling and 12ha Glasnevin vineyards. It is a fine combination, delivering a chardonnay with all the swagger of something special and all the humility and charm of a genuine class act. All the stone fruit you could hope for with just the right touch of oak this is rich, full and satisfying. Try with creamy pasta dishes.
$25
Peacock Sky Chardonnay - 2013
From the southern end of Waiheke Island, with extensive views and wild peacocks in the vineyard, 100 per cent island fruit and ever so slightly lightly oaked, this is a rich chardonnay with a creamy, soft texture. It has personality and panache - stone fruit, honeyed butter, hazelnut and caramelised pear. Try with chicken or anything from the sea.
$39 at cellar door
Available at heraldwine.co.nz for a limited time, courtesy of Glengarry and GrabOne Bottle.