Escarpment Vineyard Chardonnay Martinborough 2011 – $$$

From grapes grown during a good year from a vineyard at Te Muna Road on the escarpment behind Martinborough township.

Light gold. 13.5% alc. Burgundian, powerful, opulent bouquet.

Partial malolactic fermentation and lees stirring adds complexity. Soft mouthfeel. White peach flavours. A mineral character.

A touch astringent at the finish. This bottle was nearing the end of its drinking window. Nowhere near as enjoyable as I was expecting, due its provenance.

G 3