From the Cellar: Ata Rangi Craighall Chardonnay Martinborough 2010 – $$$

Pale gold 13.5%.

A single-vineyard wine by the great Martinborough producer. Made from fruit off Mendoza clone vines planted in 1983 – that is old for NZ – and barrel-fermented with wild yeasts.

Smelled big, mealy and refined; with rich and toasty cashew and dried apricot aromas. Gorgeous.

Seamless and elegant to drink. I saw generous golden fruit flavours. A subtle citrus note. Cashew that gives way to almond.

This is a richly textured cru Chardonnay with a lovely crunchy bitter finish. Splendid & worth the wait!

Outstanding 5