The 2023 Bannockburn Chardonnay is lean and tremendously tightly coiled at this stage, with notes of crushed and salted nuts, white peach, lemon, green apple and lemongrass. In the mouth, the acidity is a real factor in the drinking experience: it defines the finish and contributes to the overall leanness of the wine. It's crunchier than expected, but at 14% alcohol, it's certainly not underripe. Interesting angles, all of them. The Felton Road vineyard is situated below the 45th parallel, making it and the vineyards of southern New Zealand some of the most southern vineyards on the planet. Sealed under screw cap. Erin Larkin, Robert Parker Wine Advocate

Region: Bannockburn, Central Otago, New Zealand

Grape Varietal: 100% Chardonnay

Critic Rating: Robert Parker Wine Advocate 90 Points

Suggested Drink Window: 2024 - 2032