2016 Dry River Chardonnay (Martinborough)
Secondary Description
Extraordinarily Burgundian, much like Kumeu River, expressive of the very best that Chardonnay is capable of. In its middle phase, with oak and gun-flint in evidence over a remarkably fresh palate of citrus and peach; this will mellow over the next decade to reveal more ripe fruit character, but it is in a fun place at the moment. (JH 19/03/22)
Producer
Origin
Martinborough, North Island, New Zealand, NEW ZEALAND
Colour
white
Wine Style
dry
Dominant Grape
Chardonnay
Maturity
drink or keep
Bottle size
75cl
Case Quantity
12
Score
93 points, Joe Czerwinski, robertparker.com, August 2018
16.5++ points, Jancis Robinson, jancisrobinson.com, June 2019
This product is delisted and unavailable for sale.
Media Reviews
Joe Czerwinski
All barrel-fermented but in only 15% new wood, with partial malolactic, the 2016 Chardonnay kicks off with subtle notes of whole wheat toast and hints of caramelized pineapple. It`s medium-bodied, with a silky texture and a smoky note that lingers on the long, citrusy finish. It should drink well for another 5-6 years, possibly longer. 93 points
Jancis Robinson
Planted in 1983, dry farmed. pH 3.2, TA 7.8 g/l. Whole-bunch pressed and settled overnight. 15% new oak (all large barrels) and left on lees until February, stirred about five times. Then transferred to tank on the lees and bottled in June 2017.
Pale straw gold. Clean and fresh with just a little lees influence. Masses of acidity and totally unlike most NZ Chardonnays – Chablis-esque. Not nearly ready. Bone-dry end. All potential rather than reality. Very crisp, neat and contained even if very slightly austere at the moment. 16.5++ points