Forrest Marlborough Chardonnay 2023

In crafting this thoroughly enjoyable Chardonnay from Marlborough in New Zealand, the team have sourced fruit from two very different vineyards. One is located in the Wairau River Valley, a place also known for wonderful big brown trout if you have an interest in fly fishing, and the other in the Southern Valleys. Deep straw in colour, there are gentle touches of oak with hints of cashew evident on the nose. More dominant though, are the ripe stone fruit and tropical notes with a touch of passionfruit, peaches, apricot kernel, cinnamon and pineapple. Quite a supple texture, there is good force along the length and the intensity is maintained. Fine acidity balances the wine and it should drink very well for the next six to eight years.