Herringbone Chardonnay 2023

Herringbone Chardonnay is a rich, full-bodied Hawke's Bay Chardonnay with ripe peach, pineapple and citrus fruit wrapped in creamy texture and a gentle layer of toasty oak. The fruit comes from the organically farmed Oak Estate vineyard in Bridge Pa, where it was hand harvested before a proper barrel treatment gave the wine its supple, generous shape. There is plenty of flavour here, but fresh acidity keeps everything lively rather than heavy. A smart match for roast chicken, creamy seafood dishes or a good wood-fired pizza.

What the winery says:

The 2023 Chardonnay was made from organic, hand harvested Clone 15 fruit grown at the neighbouring Oak Estate vineyard. The grapes were whole bunch pressed and fermented in oak, then aged in French oak for 10 months before bottling. The finished wine balances generous fruit with subtle toasted oak, giving it a smooth, velvety palate and a rich, supple style.

What the experts say:

Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, 94/100, 5 Stars (2023)
"Complex and enticing, the bouquet shows summer peach, rockmelon, nougat and hazelnut aromas with a hint of brioche. The palate displays lovely concentration and richly textured mouthfeel, wonderfully supported by creamy texture and bright acidity, finishing splendidly long and satisfying. At its best: now to 2030"