85% SB; 9% Sem; 6%SavGris
A striking bouquet that is both generous and demanding: the Semillon stands out on the nose and is enhanced by the barrel-fermentation - a waxy white flower - almost sexy charm; the rest of the bouquet is a little hidden by the oak (that's okay) I notice the light herbaceous undercurrent of Sauvignon Blanc. Overall a very inviting and powerful beginning.
On the palate - youthful, punchy, chewy and packed with white fruits, white flowers and that Semillon/Oak waxy charm. Plenty of, but not too much oak, medium++ acidity and a lengthy finish.
A great wine to rival some northern hemisphere counterparts.
5 Stars
Te Mata Estate 'Elston' Chardonnay 2013 Hawke's Bay 14%
A classic - yet refined and elegant - Hawke's Bay Chardonnay bouquet - a gentle creaminess on the nose suggests a light creme brulee note. The oak has a keenness but also a note of subtlety - French Vanilla fragrance. Peaches and ripe red apple fruit suggestions. Medium+ complexity.
On the palate - dry, warm, bold and flavorful. There's much to talk about here with some classic New World attributes - peachy fruity core and a juicy fleshy layer; plenty of oak that is enhanced by the generous alcohol. There is a nutty and brulee-like layer too that brings this wine together demonstrating that is might just need some cellar time or the perfect food accompaniment. Creamy textures and medium+ acidity; Well made and very bold.
4 Stars
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