Stoneweaver by Huia Chardonnay 2024

Stoneweaver by Huia Chardonnay is an organically grown Marlborough Chardonnay with ripe orchard fruit, savoury nuttiness and a cool mineral edge. White peach, grapefruit and yellow apple are layered with honeycomb, toasted nuts and subtle creaminess, while linear acidity keeps the generous, near full-bodied palate focused and fresh. Wild fermentation and measured French oak maturation add texture and complexity without overwhelming the fruit. It is a polished, satisfying style for Chardonnay drinkers who enjoy richness with precision, particularly alongside roast chicken, creamy fish dishes, cheese and walnut tart or mushroom risotto.

What the winery says:

The Chardonnay was sourced from organically grown vines in Marlborough's Central Wairau Valley, planted in lighter loam soils over gravel. Unsettled flowering conditions reduced yields in 2024, followed by a long, warm and exceptionally dry summer that produced concentrated, high-quality fruit. The grapes were hand harvested and whole bunch pressed, then underwent wild fermentation in French oak barrels, including 16% new oak. The wine matured in barrel for ten months before bottling. Golden in colour, it shows hay, toasted nuts, honeycomb, melon, cream and grapefruit, followed by white peach, lime, yellow apple, oyster shell and steely minerality.

What the experts say:

Cameron Douglas MS, 91/100, Premium (2024 Vintage)
"Flavours mirror the bouquet with fruit and cashew nut then a delicate flinty quality."