The Wrekin Olive Grove Chardonnay 2022 is a refined, cool-climate white from The Wrekin Vineyard, a certified organic and biodynamically farmed estate in the Southern Valleys of Marlborough, New Zealand, a sub-region known for expressive, site-driven wines. The vineyard’s ancient clay soils over greywacke and north-west facing slopes help produce elegant fruit with bright natural acidity and complex flavour profiles. This wine is made from 100 % Chardonnay that was hand-harvested and treated with care to reflect the purity of the fruit. For the 2022 vintage the grapes were gently whole-bunch pressed, and the juice was fermented and aged for about 18 months on lees in French barriques without new oak to allow subtle complexity without overt oak dominance. Natural malolactic fermentation contributes to texture and depth. On the nose it shows an enticing aromatic mix of stone fruit, white peach and citrus, layered with hints of toasted nuts, lees complexity and a touch of smokiness. The palate is crisp and vibrant, driven by fresh acidity that balances a refined, textured mouthfeel, leading to a clean, chablis-like finish with lingering fruit and spice notes. This Chardonnay pairs beautifully with seafood, shellfish, roast chicken or pork, and dishes with creamy sauces, as well as richer salads and soft cheeses, making it versatile for both elegant dinners and relaxed gatherings. “A bright and crunchy chardonnay with sliced apple, lime, lemon and stone. Hint of nougat, too. Full to medium body. Phenolic tension frames the wine nicely and adds a crunchy feel. Dry. Drink or hold.” – JAMES SUCKLING · 94 POINTS (2020 Vintage) “A delicious wine on the nose and palate with a bouquet of fresh citrus from grapefruit then lemon, white peach and apple, there’s layers of mineral and fine lees with any oak used feels minimal. Fine tannins and acidity set a sound foundation enhancing the mineral message and promoting the core fruit and sense of place expression. Well made, a wine that tastes and feels young still. A fine silky texture and plenty of acidity. Best drinking from late 2024 through 2030. Outstanding” – CAM DOUGLAS MS · 95 POINTS (2020 Vintage)
