I first visited Chard Farm in January 1990 and have followed the progress of the winery with interest since then. 2019 was a challenging vintage in Central but experienced winemaker John Wallace has made thoughtful wines that are super expressions of place.
Chard Farm River Run Pinot Noir 2019
91 Points – NZD $33
The fruit for River Run pinot noir is sourced from a number of vineyards and the aim is to make an approachable, fruit forward wine that has character and interest. The 2019 vintage is a terrific effort; plenty of bright juicy red fruit with raspberry and red cherry taking centre stage. The palate has a smidgeon of tannin to offset the fruit sweetness and give just that touch of structure. An appealing wine that is drinking very well now.
Chard Farm Finla Mor Pinot Noir 2019
93 Points – NZD $42
Deeper in colour than the River Run and with a more exotic aroma; cinnamon spice, star anise, dark cherry and plum. The opulence carries on to the palate; plenty of rich dark berry fruit, harnessed by a little lick of wet stone acidity. There is a layer of tannin but it is very subtle. Approachable now and over the next 2-4 years.
Chard Farm Mata-Au Pinot Noir 2019
94 Points – NZD $45
From fruit off both Lowburn and Parkburn vineyards, this is a tightly framed wine that slowly opens in the glass to reveal plenty of red plum, cherry and dried sage aromas. The most intricate of the trio, its ripe, dense fruit retains lift and vibrancy. Although it seems approachable at first, the tannins slowly build across the palate leading to a dry and savoury finish. Cellar and start to drink from late 2022.
