Chardonnay has become the most planted grape variety in New Zealand. Our Chardonnays consistently perform well on the international stage and it is well known for its rich fruit laden and complex characters. Chardonnay shows the essence of the winemakers art, allowing individual producers to show there skill and personal taste like no other variety.
Regional variation is evident in Neew Zealand Chardonnay, white peach and and grapefruit flavours from the northerly Gisborne/Hawkes Bay region, while the best of Nelson Marlborough produce beautiful hazelnut and citrus flavours to complement underlying citrus. Central Otago chardonnay tends to show flinty characters.
If you are food matching young chardonnay then stick to fish, shell fish and simple chicken dishes. Older and fuller chardonnay goes very well with chicken, creamy sauces and don't be afraid to pair a good grunty chardonnay with a nice piece of fillet steak. |