Greywacke Chardonnay 2021

This wine hails from Marlborough, New Zealand's premier wine region, renowned for its cool climate and diverse terroir. The grapes for this Chardonnay are sourced primarily from the Brancott Valley and Fairhall, with additional contributions from Renwick and Rapaura. These areas feature a mix of gravelly clay-loam soils and young alluvial soils rich in greywacke river stones, which enhance drainage and contribute to the wine's vibrant minerality. The region's long growing season, with warm days and cool nights, ensures the perfect balance of ripeness and acidity.

The wine is predominantly made from the Mendoza clone of Chardonnay, known for its small, concentrated berries that produce intensely flavoured wines with crisp acidity. Complemented by Clone 95, this blend creates a complex and structured Chardonnay. Greywacke's style is characterised by a harmonious balance of tropical fruit, citrus brightness, and savoury flinty notes.

The grapes are hand-harvested at optimal ripeness and whole-bunch pressed using gentle cycles. Some juice is pressed directly into French oak barriques (20% new), while the rest is lightly settled before being racked into barrels. Fermentation occurs naturally with indigenous yeasts, with the final phase lasting several months. The wine undergoes regular lees stirring and completes full malolactic fermentation, enhancing its creamy texture and complexity. After 11 months in oak, the wine is bottled with a focus on preserving its vibrant character.

The 2021 Greywacke Chardonnay is an intricate blend of tropical and citrus aromas, with pink grapefruit, lime, and stem ginger intermingling with hints of mango, pineapple, and a touch of earthy minerality. The palate is concentrated and tightly structured, displaying a balanced interplay of sweet and savoury flavours. It concludes with a long, dry, flinty finish.

This Chardonnay pairs beautifully with seared scallops, grilled lobster, or creamy pasta dishes like carbonara. Its balance of richness and acidity also complements roast chicken or pork loin. For a vegetarian option, try it with wild mushroom risotto or a gratin of leeks and cheese. Serve at 10–12°C.