Dog Point Chardonnay 2021

The name Dog Point dates from the earliest European settlement of Marlborough and the introduction of sheep to the district. Shepherds’ dogs sometimes became lost or wandered off and eventually bred into a marauding pack which attacked local flocks. Their home was a tussock and scrub covered hill, overlooking the Wairau Plains, designated by the early settlers as Dog Point. Fruit is whole bunch pressed and transferred directly to French oak barrels (10% new) and left to undergo indigenous primary and secondary malolactic fermentations for 18 months in barrel. Bottled without fining and with only minimal filtration. A pure, bright and youthful citrus driven chardonnay with complex smokey, flint, toast and biscuit notes derived from extended barrel aging on full solids. The hallmarks of Dog Point chardonnay are ever present here with pure saline and crisp palate structure. This vintage will have the ability to age well. Perfect match with scallops, white fish, poultry and BBQ pork. Colour: Deep straw in colour. Aroma: A fresh and subtle expression with cool, citrus tones, hazelnuts and lanolin notes. The impact of 18 months elevage adding elements of oatmeal and brioche. Palate: Bracing, fresh, ripe, citrus leads on the palate. Lovely, salivating acidity gives the wine drive and focus before more subtle creamy textures build on the finish. Tightly coiled with generous concentration, it will reward a few extra years in the cellar before drinking. Cellaring: Drinks beautifully now or can be cellared for 10+ years Intense chardonnay with lemon curd, oyster shell, ginger, struck flint and attractively integrated spicy oak flavours. Youthful wine with bright, juicy acidity that brings energy while driving a lengthy finish. Classy chardonnay. Should develop well with bottle age. – Bob Campbell MW, The Real Review, 96 Points. The Finer Details Style – White Wine Varietal – Chardonnay Country – New Zealand Region – Marlborough Vintage – 2021 Bottle Size – 750ml ABV – 14%