Pyramid Valley North Canterbury Chardonnay 2023

Pyramid Valley North Canterbury Chardonnay is a deep, savoury Chardonnay with plenty of richness, but no shortage of energy. Nectarine, citrus and lemongrass meet brioche, hazelnut and subtle barrel spice, with an almost chewy old-vine texture pulled into line by bright, saline acidity. It is part of Pyramid Valley’s regional range, made to capture North Canterbury with the same natural-ferment, low-intervention thinking found in the estate’s more rarefied single-vineyard wines. Layered, concentrated and already beautifully expressive, though there is enough structure here to suggest patience will be well rewarded.

What the winery says:

Made from old-vine Mendoza Chardonnay grown on Omihi clay soils, with the vineyard dry-farmed without synthetic chemicals or fertilisers. The fruit is hand-picked and whole-bunch pressed before wild fermentation in French oak and extended maturation on lees. Bottled unfined and unfiltered, it shows lemongrass, citrus, brioche and hazelnut across a full, richly textured palate, tightened by fresh saline acidity and a long, driven finish.

What the experts say:

Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, 96/100
“Immensely complex and inviting, the bouquet showcases nectarine, lemon peel, subtle vanilla, hazelnut, and savoury pastry aromas.”

Cameron Douglas MS, 95/100 & Outstanding
“Youthful, varietal, waves of intensity showing ripe stone fruits then barrel spices, plenty of lees action then grapefruit, peach and red apple.”

Stephen Wong MW, The Real Review, 93/100
“Musky, spicy nose with ripe apricot and citrus, this immediately complex and approachable wine delivers delicious nutty richness and soft, almost creamy fruit.”