Thomson Left Bank Clutha Chardonnay 23/24

Thomson Left Bank Clutha Chardonnay 23/24 is Domaine Thomson's Central Otago Chardonnay from its Clutha vineyard on the western side of the Cromwell Basin. The 2023 and 2024 releases share a generous, polished style, combining citrus and orchard fruit with nutty, savoury detail, creamy texture and well-judged freshness. There is plenty of Chardonnay richness here without losing shape or energy. It is an appealing choice for drinkers who enjoy textured, barrel-influenced Chardonnay, and a fine match with roast chicken, grilled seafood, creamy pasta or soft-rind cheese.

What the winery says:

Domaine Thomson describes Left Bank Chardonnay as its signature white wine, grown in the Clutha vineyard in Central Otago. The 2024 fruit was hand-picked, whole-bunch pressed and racked to French oak barrels for nine months. The winery notes aromas of brioche, apple strudel and citrus, with a medium to full-bodied palate, creamy texture and a generous finish. The 2023 release was praised for its white-fleshed peach, lemon peel, nougat, hazelnut and flinty character, supported by concentration, creamy texture and bright acidity.

What the experts say:

Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, 95 Points (2023)
“Exquisite and complex, the wine presents aromas of white-fleshed peach, lemon peel, nougat, hazelnut, and flint on the nose. The palate exhibits outstanding concentration and depth, wonderfully enhanced by creamy texture and beautifully pitched acidity, finishing impressively long and expansive.”

Cameron Douglas MS, 93 Points, Excellent (2024)
“Ripe, pure fruited bouquet and palate with accents of grapefruit and acidity then apple and mineral stony qualities, apple and vanilla spikes from use of barrel and lees integrations. Dry, medium+ weighted with a vanilla and apple-cream custard mouthfeel, fine tannins and lengthy finish. Well made with best drinking from 2026 through 2030+.”