2021KumeuRiverRay’sRoadChardonnay

From vines on a 180-200 m altitude limestone hillside in Hawke’s Bay (acquired 2017), the vineyard isâ€?/p>

Product

From vines on a 180-200 m altitude limestone hillside in Hawke’s Bay (acquired 2017), the vineyard is dry-farmed, using low-yielding rootstocks and Chardonnay clones (e.g., 548, 95, 15) planted in 2010. Hand-harvested, whole-bunch pressed, indigenous yeast fermented in older French oak barrels with 100% malolactic, matured 11 months on lees, minimal new oak and bottled under screw cap. Aromas of citrus peel, white peach, and struck flint. The palate is precise and energetic, showing layers of lemon curd, nectarine, and subtle toast. Crisp acidity and a fine, chalky texture lead to a long, mineral finish.