Pyramid Valley Chardonnay North Canterbury – 2022

Pyramid Valley are probably New Zealand’s most exciting “newcomers” of the past few years, making some of the most impressive Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays outside Burgundy. Situated about 50kms north of Christchurch on New Zealand’s South Island, their cool climate, high altitude vineyards are based on a mix of clay and limestone soils. The vineyards were planted in 2000 and have been cultivated biodynamically ever since. In 2017 the winery was sold to Steve Smith MW, one of New Zealand’s most accomplished winemakers and formerly the head winemaker at Craggy Range. At 20+ years of age, the vines are now beginning to show their true potential. These are fantastic, single site, terroir-expressive wines and seriously good value alternatives to Burgundy!

2022 was a cool growing season, with higher than average rainfall resulting in lush, healthy canopies. The weather became dry and stable in late March/April which allowed for picking of clean, ripe fruit.

The wine has complex aromas of grilled nuts, citrus fruits, florals and a hint of lemon rind. Mouth-watering acidity drives the palate with laser focus, flavours of citrus fruits, toasted nuts and a creamy texture which gives the wine body and weight. 

“The 2022 North Canterbury Chardonnay is expressive and exotic on the nose—there are dried herbs and exotic spice, layers of dehydrated orange peel, graphite, white pepper, hints of yellow peach, flakes of sea salt and shaved fennel. In the mouth, the wine is rich and sapid; it penetrates deep into the palate and stains it with flavor. It holds a tight line of restraint and is a pleasure to behold. It’s satisfying and detailed. The wine went through 100% malolactic fermentation. Comparing this to the 2021, this is saline and crystalline, with crushed shells and saline acidity. A svelte wine.” 94/100pts Wine Advocate