Takapoto Estate Hawke’s Bay Reserve Chardonnay 2020
Hand-picked from a coastal Chardonnay block in Hawke's Bay, these exceptional grapes thrived in the warm climate, cooled by evening sea breezes. The resulting wine boasts ripe tropical and stone fruit flavours, complemented by a refreshing acidity. Made naturally, the grapes were pressed directly to barrel, undergoing wild primary and malolactic fermentation. After spending 12 months in French oak barrels (40% new), the wine was bottled unfined with minimal filtration. With a bold and complex nose of pineapple, lemon curd, and nutty oak, this full-bodied Chardonnay showcases flavours of white peach, roasted nuts, vanilla, and a stony minerality, with a refreshing finish. Limited to just 5 barrels.
Technical Information:
Variety: Chardonnay
Region: Hawke’s Bay
Vintage: 2020
Percentage Alc: 13.5%
“Bright, even, pale yellow. The nose is full and voluminous, with aromas of struck-match, gunflint, citrus, stonefruit and toasty nuance. Full-bodied, aromas of lemon sherbet, lemon curd intertwined with peach and apricot, unfolding vanilla, gunflint, toasty oak and nutty hints. The fruit is bright and fresh with clarity and acid precision. Toasty oak details and gunflint contribute to the complexity and layers, framing an opulent structure. This youthful Chardonnay is packed with flavours and tension. Match with roasted chestnut stuffed chicken and pork stew over the next 6-8 years. Handpicked fruit from a coastal block, the fruit was pressed directly into barrels, underwent MLF, aged 12 months in French oak barrels for 12 months, 40% new oak. 19-/20 pts (95 pts) Aug 2023” - Candice Chow, Candice Chow for Raymond Chan Wine Reviews, Raymond Chan Wine Reviews, raymondchanwinereviews.co.nz