2018 Mission Estate “Reserve” Chardonnay, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand

Arriving in New Zealand in 1838, pioneering French missionaries established a lasting legacy. Their numerous achievements, woven into the fabric of history, led to the creation of New Zealand’s first winery, Mission Estate, in 1851. The enduring influence of these French-trained vintners is evident in the winery’s small batch, barrel-aged wines. This rich heritage continues to inspire and shape the winery’s tradition today.  Why do we like it? Chosen from premier vineyards in Hawke’s Bay, this Chardonnay underwent barrel fermentation in French oak and was aged on lees for nine months prior to its release. The result is a rich, fruit-forward wine with a smooth texture. It features flavours of ripe peach and citrus, complemented by subtle toast and light spice from the barrel aging. Grape           Chardonnay Country        New-Zealand                                  Region          Hawke's Bay                           Vintage         2018