Fat & Sassy Hawke's Bay Chardonnay 2022

$22.99

The name does not really say it all.  This is a Chardonnay that is made by a Chardonnay legend, in fact that is all they make.  Last of the 2022 before it switches to a Marlborough based blend for the vintage.

This Chardonnay has a full, broad nose of refreshing and bright aromas of ripe yellow stone fruits and citrus fruits along with an edge of creamy and nutty barrel-ferment and spicy oak notes, subtle lemon-curd and buttery MLF notes. The palate has flavours of citrus fruits melded with creamy barrel-ferment and nutty, spicy oak.

The mouthfeel is enriched by integrated layers of lemon-curd and buttery MLF nuances. The palate has an underlying freshness with acid poise, and the wine flows along a fine-textured line with creamy nutty notes leading to a sustained finish with toasty oak.

It's instantly appealing on the nose with grilled stone fruit, mango, French vanilla and roasted hazelnut characters. The palate delivers excellent weight and roundness, gorgeously complemented by creamy texture and fine acidity. Richly styled and delectably expressed with a lengthy satisfying finish. At its best: now to 2028 94/100 Sam Kim Wine Orbit