#Top 100 New Zealand Wines 2022
#Top Ranked Marlborough Chardonnay

This inaugural vintage has bowled us over with its bright, zesty grapefruit and lemon notes coupled with brioche, musk and savoury toastiness. There is an oyster-shell, chalky texture that is borne upon precise, defined acidity. Wild fermentation, zero battonage, natural malolactic fermentation and a mixed format oak regime (barriques and puncheons – 30% new) results in a complex and layered palate. Maintaining the minimalist philosophy, Blank Canvas bottle it without filtration and it is presented only with sincerity.

Suave and seamless Chardonnay that's very relaxed in its own skin. This low-yield season has provided excellent fruit concentration. The combination of barrels and puncheons infuses a nutty, savory element and there's also an appetizing waft of smoky bacon. A fine line of lemon-peel-like acidity emerges on the mouthwatering finish. Excellent harmony and will improve with additional bottle age allowing the oak aromas to soften. This is the cuvée's inaugural vintage, and I cannot wait to see the next.