Vidal Reserve Chardonnay 2022

This classically styled Hawkes Bay Chardonnay displays aromas of sweet lemon, nectarine and grilled hazelnuts. Subtle hints of burnt butter and smoky oak add complexity and layers of flavour. The palate is linear and refreshing with the riper fruit notes supported by juicy acidity.

This wine was predominantly made from our Keltern Vineyard and balanced with fruit from Kokako Farms in the Ohiti Valley and Phoenix Estate in the TukiTuki Valley. The soil type and climate of each site have contributed particular characters to the final wine. A warm season punctuated with frequent summer rain meant the right picking decisions were crucial to ensure good quality fruit which would then allow the wines to express fruit intensity and palate definition.

Once pressed the juice was run to a mix of stainless steel tank and oak barrels for fermentation. Yeast was chosen to highlight the complexity and richness of Hawkes Bay Chardonnay. After primary fermentation was complete, some malolactic fermentation took place to add weight to the palate and the wine was left maturing on lees with frequent stirring for 12 months before preparation for bottling. Sensitive winemaking has allowed site and season to be reflected, supporting the complex and elegant style of this wine.