Babich Hawke's Bay Chardonnay 2025

Babich Hawke's Bay Chardonnay is a bright, fruit-forward take on Hawke's Bay Chardonnay, made without oak so the ripe orchard and stone-fruit character stays centre stage. Expect rock melon, peach, pear and apricot, with fresh citrus lift, a soft, creamy texture and a gently savoury butterscotch note on the finish. It is generous without feeling heavy, and its clean, dry shape makes it an easy choice for roast chicken, creamy pasta or a platter of smoked fish. From a New Zealand family winery established in 1916, this is relaxed, crowd-friendly Chardonnay with plenty of flavour and no need for ceremony.

What the winery says:

The 2025 is unoaked and built around ripe fruit. Aromas of rock melon, peach, apricot and citrus lead into honeydew melon, peach and pear on the palate. The texture is creamy, with a subtle butterscotch note lingering on the finish.

What the experts say:

Anthony Gismondi, Gismondi on Wine, 89 Points (2025)
“The nose is spicy and open with rich pear and lemon, with some brown spice in the back end.”