The Cuvar Iris Collection Chardonnay 2022 from Hawke's Bay is a delightful and well-balanced expression of New Zealand Chardonnay. This wine, which beautifully showcases the region’s ability to produce refined and expressive white wines, has been crafted with care to highlight both fruit purity and subtle oak influence.
Nose: The bouquet is vibrant and inviting, with bursts of candied tropical fruits like pineapple and mango, interwoven with notes reminiscent of warm fruit crumble. There’s a hint of vanilla and a touch of smoky oak that adds complexity without overwhelming the fruit.
Palate: On the palate, this Chardonnay is smooth and creamy, with a satin-like texture that carries the flavours of ripe peaches and citrus. The wine’s acidity is well-integrated, providing a refreshing balance to the richness of the fruit and the gentle oak. The harmony between these elements makes for an enjoyable and approachable wine.
Finish: The finish is long and balanced, with the fruit, oak, and acidity all singing in harmony, leaving a lingering impression of warm, toasty oak and bright citrus.
The 2022 Cuvar Iris Collection Chardonnay is an excellent choice for those who enjoy a crowd-pleasing, versatile Chardonnay that pairs well with a variety of dishes. It’s ready to drink now but will continue to evolve beautifully over the next few years.