Mourning for a bygone era? Fret not, big fat chardonnay’s are out there, you just have to have a “girls look”.
Alchemy Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay 2014 $27 ★★★★
Google will have you believe that Alchemy is defined as “a seemingly magical process of transformation, creation, or combination” This wine however, has had much calculated thought put into it by owner Neal Cave and winemaker Ant Mackenzie. Clones 15 and ENTAV-548, were handpicked, 100% barrel fermented in 30% new French oak and given a full malolactic ferment to create funky creaminess. It’s a smoky, complex, big-gun of a chardonnay that (as my Dad would say) will put hair on your chest.
Tiki Single Vineyard Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay 2014 $23 ★★★★½
Crafted by winemaking legend Evan Ward, this wine oozes smoked apricot, toasty nectarine and oatmealy, creamy flavours. There’s a gently juicy texture, silky citrus and vanilla-infused spices wash around the back teeth. And it’s rich, fulfilling and rather fabulous.This is a great wine from a chardonnay master at work.
For stockists visit www.tikiwine.com
Sacred Hill Halo Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay 2014 $25 ★★★★½
Born in the now nationally-reverred Rifleman’s Vineyard which lies in a secret spot inland-west of Napier in Puketapu’s Dartmoor Valley, this is an ‘impress-your-friends’ chardonnay if ever I tasted one. Prepare for a burst of fennel, peach and vanilla, alongside some white pepper and a big, juicy, satisfying texture. It’s fat, fresh and fabulous.
