2004 Kiwi Chardonnays
Posted: Sat Jun 04, 2005 9:42 pm
Hi Guys
Its been a few vintages here in NZ since I have really got excited about chardonnay. Not that any vintage in memory has been a disaster, most have been good, very good. it just seems since 1996 we really havent had a general stunner of a white vintage in NZ.
Is 2004 changing that? 2004 Sauvignon Blancs didnt really live up to expectation although there were a few smart examples (not that it will concern many around here). But now many wineries are releasing 'best ever' chardonnay vintages and the talk around the traps is 2004 is the best chardonnay vintage since 1989 in the Hawkes Bay at least.
I have tried the Kumeu River twins and the Te Mata Elston and they were stunning wines of really exciting quality - just displaying some real finesse, elegance and pedigree, and have heard others rave about the Clearview Reserve and Sacred Hill Riflemans.
Vintage to buy a few? Anyone tried any outstanding 04 chardonnays yet?
C.
Its been a few vintages here in NZ since I have really got excited about chardonnay. Not that any vintage in memory has been a disaster, most have been good, very good. it just seems since 1996 we really havent had a general stunner of a white vintage in NZ.
Is 2004 changing that? 2004 Sauvignon Blancs didnt really live up to expectation although there were a few smart examples (not that it will concern many around here). But now many wineries are releasing 'best ever' chardonnay vintages and the talk around the traps is 2004 is the best chardonnay vintage since 1989 in the Hawkes Bay at least.
I have tried the Kumeu River twins and the Te Mata Elston and they were stunning wines of really exciting quality - just displaying some real finesse, elegance and pedigree, and have heard others rave about the Clearview Reserve and Sacred Hill Riflemans.
Vintage to buy a few? Anyone tried any outstanding 04 chardonnays yet?
C.