144 Islands Northland Chardonnay 2018 $28 
Northland has a knack for turning out chardonnay with richness and tantalising creamy textures, and under the watchful eye of Jake Dromgool, one of New Zealand’s star young viticulturists (he’s been on TV and everything!), it takes on extra personality. The roast peach and mango are edged with grapefruity grip and it boasts a long, satisfyingly dry finish. Situated 20 kilometres inland from the Bay of Islands at 300 metres above sea level, the vineyard overlooks all the land between Russell and the Purerua Peninsula and out toward Motu Kokako, the island which adorns the label. Named after the smorgasbord of tiny islands scattered throughout the Bay of Islands, the 144 Islands chardonnay is super-charming with chook a-la the fry of Kentucky.
