Nanny Goat Queensberry Chardonnay 2023

Nanny Goat Vineyard, established in Central Otago’s Queensberry sub-region, is renowned for producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of the area. The 2023 vintage of their Queensberry Chardonnay continues this tradition, showcasing the best attributes of the region’s cool-climate viticulture.

The 2023 Queensberry Chardonnay is crafted exclusively from Block 13, Clone 15, within the estate's Queensberry vineyard. The grapes are hand-harvested and whole-bunch pressed to stainless steel tanks for a brief period of settling. The juice is then gently transferred to 500L French oak puncheons (20% new), where fermentation occurs naturally with occasional lees stirring to enhance palate weight and texture. Malolactic fermentation takes place in barrel over 10 months of maturation, softening the palate while retaining a fine vein of acidity. The wine is bottled without fining or filtration to preserve its purity and expression of the vineyard.

In the glass, the 2023 Queensberry Chardonnay presents a pale golden hue. The nose is expressive, with aromas of orange zest, poached nectarine, hazelnut, sweet baking spice, and an intriguing note of wet river stone. On the palate, the wine is unashamedly rich and mouth-filling up front, opening to a taut core of nectarine, pear crumble, and toasty oak. A fine bead of acidity draws the palate out to a long, textural finish.

This Chardonnay pairs well with dishes such as gnocchi with sage brown butter sauce, roast chicken, or creamy seafood pasta. Its balance of richness and acidity makes it suitable for both immediate enjoyment and short- to medium-term cellaring.

Tasting Profile

Food Pairings:

Cheese

Game

Poultry