The 2018 Elephant Hill Reserve Chardonnay is an exceptional release from one of New Zealand’s most prestigious wineries. Grown on the scenic Te Awanga coastline, it represents the pinnacle of their Chardonnay offerings, only released when the fruit quality is outstanding. Aged 12 months in French oak (25% new) with lees stirring and an additional 5 months on lees in tank, this wine boasts rich texture and depth.
Accolades include:
5 Stars (Michael Cooper)
5 Stars & 95/100 (Sam Kim)
5 Stars (Raymond Chan Wine Reviews)
4 1/2 Stars & Top 10 NZ Chardonnays (Cuisine magazine)
On the palate, it delivers ripe stonefruit flavors, finely integrated oak, and bright acidity, finishing with a Savory, lingering complexity. The balance of freshness and richness makes it ideal for both immediate enjoyment and further aging, with peak drinking from 2025 onwards. At $29.99, this is an outstanding value for such a highly rated, cellar-worthy Chardonnay.