Nautilus Estate Chardonnay 2024

Nautilus Estate Chardonnay is a layered, beautifully composed Marlborough Chardonnay that balances ripe fruit and creamy depth with a firm mineral edge. Nectarine, apricot and honeysuckle meet brioche, toasted hazelnut and gentle flinty notes, with natural fermentation bringing extra savoury detail through the palate. There is plenty of concentration here, but the freshness keeps it elegant rather than heavy. Nautilus has been family-owned since it began making wine in Marlborough in 1985, and this is a polished example of its textural, food-friendly style - excellent alongside roast chicken, creamy seafood or mushroom dishes.

What the winery says:

Handpicked Chardonnay grapes are chilled overnight before gentle pressing, then fermented entirely in French oak barriques using indigenous yeast, with around 20% new oak. A short period of lees stirring after fermentation adds texture and complexity. Ripe nectarine, apricot, brioche and toasted hazelnut lead into stone fruit, honeysuckle and nutty savoury notes, with good concentration, a tight mineral structure and a long, refreshing finish that should become creamier with time.

What the experts say:

Cameron Douglas MS, 93/100 & Excellent
“Classic Nautilus expression, ripe and bold, a wine with power and core flavours of roasted stone fruits and baking spices.”

Stephen Wong MW, The Real Review, 94/100 & Top Value NZ