2015 Mate's Vineyard Chardonnay
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Tasting notes
The 2015 Maté’s Vineyard Chardonnay has a more exotic bouquet than the 2014, featuring peach, lemon curd, orange pith and a touch of toffee apple. It is just a little too rich for my liking, although I suspect it will gain more precision with bottle age. The palate is well balanced with a viscous opening. The acidity here is slightly lower than the 2014 although there is decent depth toward the honeyed finish. Very fine, but not a top-drawer Maté’s Vineyard. Tasted at the Kumeu River Chardonnay vertical in London.
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Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Big and brawny but not that expressive aromatically. All potential rather than reality. Edgy and grainy and intense. (JR)
Lively and tight, creamy. Really fine. Lots of grip. (JR)
The 2015 Mate's Vineyard Chardonnay is a cracking example of this vineyard/vintage, starting with a youthfully reticent nose of lemon curd, grapefruit juice and peach blossoms with hints of crushed stones, lime leaves and brioche. The medium-bodied palate is tightly wound with an electric backbone of freshness supporting the intense citrus and mineral flavors, finishing with great length. It needs another 3-4 years in bottle to really get into its groove.