2019 Millton Clos de Ste Anne Chardonnay
Grape
Chardonnay
Its Origins
The first biodynamic estate in New Zealand (and the first in the Southern Hemisphere to gain Demeter certification), James and Annie Millton have been growing wine in Manutuke on the banks of the Te Arai river in Gisborne since 1984. Farmed from inception in this manner, it was built on the backbone of family winegrowing in the area, with both James and Annie's parents having vines in what is now known as "Opou" and "Riverpoint". The Clos de Ste. Anne is a single vineyard situated on steep north-facing slopes in the foothills of Poverty Bay. The grapes are all hand harvested and fermented with indigenous yeasts present in the vineyard. The estate is mostly known for their Chenin Blanc - a benchmark for the country - but they also grow wonderful Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Viognier, Gewurztraminer and Riesling.
What The Critics Say
96/100 Cameron Douglas MS
"Grown and made by Annie and James Millton - this single vineyard expression is complex and delicious. Aromas and flavours of white peach and quince, lemon and apple, a core of minerality coupled with a distinctive leesy complexity Complex on the palate too with moments of oak then fruit flavours and winemaking that mirror the bouquet. A layer of leesy complexity highlights a salty salivating quality. Fabulous wine, weighty, fresh, textured and delicious. Best drinking from early 2022 through 2030." Drink 2022 - 2030
96/100 Raymond Chan Reviews, Candice Chow
"Bright, pale yellow with some depth and a slight green hue, lighter on edge. The nose is softly full and elegant; crunchy mineral lifting melded with apple, pear and stonefruit mix; barrel spices, creamy curd and almonds are well-proportioned and integrated. Medium-bodied, the palate is crisp and elegant; apple, pear and apricot nuances have crunch and purity, enriched with toasted almonds, lemon curd and layered spices. The flavour flows effortlessly on an appley acid line with mineral crunch to linearity. This is an utterly elegant Chardonnay with fruit's purity, integrated oak details and a crunchy, seamless flow. Match with game fish and pork loin over the next 8+ years. Fruit was sourced from the steep slopes in the foothills of Poverty Bay, 25 y.o. vines, own-rooted and dry-farmed. Handpicked, whole bunch pressed, native yeast fermented in barriques to 13% alc, no MLF, aged 10 months on lees. Organic and biodynamic certified. Unfined, vegan friendly. 19+/20 pts (96 pts) June 2021 RRP $90"
95/100 Bob Campbell MW
"From 25-year-old vines on their own roots and dry-farmed. Taut, vibrant chardonnay with oyster-shell, saline, grapefruit, citrus, ginger and cashew nut characters supported by tangy acidity. Impressive. 02 JUL 2021." Drink 2021 - 2026
| Variety | Chardonnay |
|---|---|
| Region | Gisborne |
| Closure | Cap |
| Volume | 750ml |
| Alcohol | 13.00% |
| Maturity | 2021 - 2035 |
This Wine Goes Well With
Taste
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