Scout Chardonnay 2024

Scout Central Otago Chardonnay is a finely structured, textural Chardonnay sourced from two elevated vineyards in Bendigo and Lowburn. White nectarine, grapefruit and stone fruit are layered with almond, subtle oak spice and a cool mineral edge, creating a wine that balances richness with precision. Wild fermentation, partial malolactic fermentation and time on lees build creaminess and depth, while vibrant citrus keeps the finish taut and focused. It is a thoughtful, composed expression of Central Otago Chardonnay, well suited to roast chicken, grilled fish, creamy seafood dishes or simply enjoying slowly over an evening.

What the winery says:

The fruit came from two elevated Central Otago sites. The Bendigo vineyard sits at 350 metres on weathered schist soils, while the Packspur Vineyard in Lowburn is planted at 400 metres in sandy loams interspersed with quartz gravels. The grapes were hand picked and whole bunch pressed directly to French barriques, including 15% new oak, for wild fermentation. Malolactic fermentation was completed on 85% of the wine, and it was bottled in July 2025. White nectarine and grapefruit aromas are layered with almond milk, followed by citrus, stone fruit, almond and nougat. Lees contact brings richness, subtle oak spice and a taut mineral finish.