Sorrell Wines ‘The Wrekin’ Chardonnay 2022 is an expressive, cool-climate Chardonnay from Sorrell Wines, a boutique Marlborough producer in Marlborough, New Zealand that focuses on organic, single-vineyard wines with minimal intervention and strong vineyard expression. Marlborough’s cooler climate, bright sunshine and diverse soils help give its white wines tension, purity and fruit intensity. The Chardonnay was made from grapes that were 100 % hand-picked and whole-bunch pressed, then fermented with vineyard-sourced yeasts and aged for about 18 months on lees in French barriques with no new oak to allow complexity without oak dominance. Natural malolactic fermentation adds texture and richness. On the nose it shows a complex mix of toasted nuts, lees and smoky notes over pure stone fruit and white peach, underpinned by a citrus backbone. The palate is crisp and pure, enlivened by vibrant acidity that gives structure and liveliness, with flavours of citrus pith, ripe stone fruit and a touch of spice lingering in the finish. This Chardonnay captures both fresh Marlborough fruit and textural depth, making it versatile with food: seafood, shellfish, roast chicken or pork, creamy pasta and soft cheeses all make excellent pairings, and it also drinks beautifully on its own. Why we love this wine? we love the vibrancy of this wine with slight smoky notes!
