MAN O'WAR VALHALLA CHARDONNAY 2022

First planted in 1993, at the eastern end of Waiheke Island, Man O’ War consists of 150 acres of vines planted in 76 individual hillside blocks, each with a distinct soil profile and microclimate. Every single block bears the footprints, and sometimes the names, of those who transformed Man O’ War’s rugged hillsides into a spectacular patchwork of vines. Helmed by winemaker Duncan McTavish and vineyard manager Matt Allen, the wines represent a legacy of preservation and great respect for the land and its history. Rated as Waiheke’s finest vintage to date, the 2013 vintage delivered fruit of exceptional quality. Hand harvested and either gently foot stomped before pressing or whole bunch pressed directly to barrel for an un-inoculated ‘wild’ fermentation in 500 litre acacia or oak puncheons.

Valhalla Chardonnay 2022 offers intense savoury aromas on the first pour with brioche, cashew, and hazelnut over ripe stone fruit characters with a final hint of green smoke. The aromas shift seamlessly onto the palate which shows the richness of the vintage, well tamed by the acidity and finished with a salted caramel character confirming the influence of the Pacific Ocean on the viticulture. A beautifully balanced wine, complex and rewarding, a classic Valhalla Chardonnay.

Tasting Profile

Aroma:

Apple, Lemon, Nectarine

Palate:

Apple, Cream, Peach

Food Pairings:

Fish

Pork

Poultry