First made in 1984, Elston has long been regarded as one of New Zealand’s finest Chardonnays. From the oldest vines in the Havelock Hills, fragrant with grapefruit, stonefruit, light sizzled butter, nougat, and oak spice. The palate traces a fine line of savoury fruit, very compact and subtle, delicately textured with good intensity, quite saline/mineral, subtle yet very persistent. No hurry here at all. Aged in 33% new oak, for 11 months. Points: 96/100
Chardonnay sourced from Havelock Hills, Bridge Pa and Dartmoor, Mendoza, 548 and 95 clones, full barrel ferment, 85% mlf. Light straw with aromas of juicy white peach, grilled nectarine, grapefruit and lemon fruits over hints of clotted cream, vanillin oak, soft spice, white flowers, sea breeze, nougat, grilled hazelnuts, crème fraîche, a curl of struck flint and crushed riverstone. Power with restraint, lovely stony resolve on the palate, a light creamy textural aspect and a beautiful long draw of flavour. Points: 96/100
Winemakers Comments