2022 Cloudy Bay Chardonnay - New Zealand

2022 Cloudy Bay Chardonnay

The wine is the result of a year of challenging and inconsistent weather in the region, which led to a significant reduction in harvest volume. Although the yield was low, optimal soil conditions ensured that the harvested fruit could develop its full flavour on the vine and retain high acidity.

Assemblage and Provenance:
Crafted from a blend of fruit from vines grown in the warm, gravelly soils of the Wairau Valley and the cooler, dense clay soils of the Southern Valleys. The full-bodied, concentrated, and complex fruits from these two complementary soils unite to create a wonderful balance of fruit ripeness and citrus elegance. After gentle pressing, the juice is settled and racked before being transferred into French oak barriques (15% new). Here, the wine rests in barrel for 11 months before being blended and bottled. Despite the unpredictable weather in the Wairau Valley and a rather smaller harvest, the 2022 vintage possesses all the characteristics of a future classic. The wonderfully warm and dry conditions just before harvest, contrary to initial concerns, led to high-quality fruit. With intense, vibrant aromas and the perfect balance between sweet and savoury, this famous New Zealand export is ready to drink now.

Nose:
On the nose, this wine is open and expressive, with powerful notes of stone fruit and orchard blossom, complemented by subtle hints of crème pâtissière and hazelnut.

Palate:
The palate is taut and vibrant with a delicious citrus freshness framing a core of conference pear and white nectarines. A hint of toasted oak intermingles with spicy textures, leading to a long and elegant finish.

Winemaking:
Cloudy Bay's Sauvignon Blanc predominantly comes from vineyards in the Wairau Valley, where the climate is warm and dry, and the soil is free-draining. Fermentation mainly takes place in stainless steel tanks. Approximately 4% of the blend is aged at higher temperatures in old French oak and large format oak barrels.

Serving Suggestion:
Enjoy chilled at 8-10°C.
A great gastronomic alternative to Burgundy, which pairs particularly well with food. Serve it with seafood dishes such as Spaghetti Vongole or with smoky, grilled dishes like smoked aubergine with grilled flatbread. It also pairs well with dishes featuring tomatoes and peppers, soft cheeses, cream sauces, and citrus and garlic flavours.