2016 Moutere Chardonnay

The 2016 Moutere Chardonnay was one of the best Kiwi Chardonnays when I used to cover New Zealand a decade ago, and thankfully, little seems to have changed. It has a beautiful, very well-defined, quite mineral-driven bouquet that is understated at first but then gathers momentum in the glass, picking up hints of white peach and flint. The palate is very well defined, with subtle citrus fruit, pineapple and quince notes on the entry, a fine bead of acidity and a touch of almond and orange pith towards the long finish. Superb.

The 2016 Chardonnay Moutere stands tall as one of New Zealand's top Chardonnays. It may not be as intensely concentrated as some vintages, but this medium-bodied wine still carries itself with elegance and grace. Toasty oak frames refined melon and pear fruit, peach and pineapple, all underscored by a silky texture and a fine line of citrus that lingers on the finish.

Just the merest hint of smoky reduction but the aroma is mostly dominated by a light mealy spice from the oak and an underlying fruit purity. Chewy, almost savoury on the palate. Great balance of oak, fruit and lees texture. Should age well and not really ready yet, though some might like it in its more primary state. (JH)