2011 Mate's Vineyard Chardonnay
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Tasting notes
The lively 2011 Mate's Vineyard Chardonnay relies more on lemon and lime notes for its appeal, being only medium-bodied and showing ample length and freshness. It's not a ripe, opulent vintage but remains charming and elegant.
Critic scores
Average Score
Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, Wine Advocate
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
The 2011 Maté’s Vineyard Chardonnay has one of the most backward, strictest bouquets in recent years, suggesting that it requires more time in bottle. The palate is well balanced with a saline entry, good depth and a fine bead of acidity. Everything is in place for a great Chardonnay; it just needs three or four more years to evolve something even more special. Wait! Tasted at the Kumeu River Chardonnay vertical in London.
Rather simple nose. Satin texture. Good vitality. Really very juicy and appealing. So juicy and gouleyant . A great drink for now. Not that persistent but impressive – especially for this vintage. (JR)
Pale, bright lemon-yellow. Subtle, pure aromas of pear, fresh apple, hazelnut and iodine, complemented by spicy oak tones. Smoky, strong and rich if a bit youthfully disjointed, with strong acidity and underlying mineral backbone keeping the pear, citrus and underripe pineapple flavors quite tight today. Very wound-up for New Zealand chardonnay and built for a graceful evolution in bottle. I like the wine's savory umami texture, but hands off for now!