2016 Kumeu River Chardonnay Mate`s Vineyard

Maté`s is usually the tightest, most linear of the KR Chards, and that`s again the case. The 2016 Mate`s Vineyard Chardonnay is marked by smoky new oak, but there`s also pineapple and grapefruit notes that create a crisp, acidic spine. Draped off of that are hints of white peaches, roasted hazelnuts and tangerine. There`s an almost briny zestiness to the lingering finish that sets it apart from the winery`s other single-vineyard bottlings. 94 points