Te Mata Estate Elston Chardonnay Hawkes Bay – 2019

Produced since 1984, Elston is grown on the estate’s oldest vines on hillsides overlooking the winery. The grapes are fully hand harvested from their separate, individual plots of vines, carefully sorted then fermented in a mix of new and seasoned French oak barrels. The wine then spends 10 months after fermentation resting on its lees in barrel to gain further complexity and depth.

This example from the excellent 2019 vintage has enticing aromas of golden nectarines, passion fruit and grilled pineapple, with additional flavours of roasted cashew nuts and crème brulée from its time spent in oak barrels. It has lively acidity and a long, mineral length. Complex, savoury, fresh and elegant, 2019 is no doubt one of the great vintages of Elston!

Winemaker’s tip:- serve with a pumpkin and leek risotto.

Drink 2022-2029