Elephant Hill Reserve Chardonnay 2021

Winemaking
The 2021 Reserve Chardonnay is sourced from Elephant Hill’s coastal Te Awanga and inland Bridge Pa vineyards in Hawke’s Bay. Carefully hand-picked fruit was whole-bunch pressed and fermented in French oak barriques (35% new) using wild yeasts. The wine was aged on lees for 11 months with bâtonnage, gaining weight and texture. Full malolactic fermentation rounds out the palate and enhances richness, while retaining elegance and energy thanks to the coastal influence.

Bouquet
The nose is lifted and expressive, showing ripe stone fruit, lemon curd and grilled pineapple. Subtle oak notes of roasted almond, vanilla and flint add depth and polish.

Palate
Generous and inviting, the palate opens with juicy peach, ripe citrus and creamy oak spice. A fine thread of acidity runs through the wine, adding balance and structure. Textural and silky, with a long, toasty finish that lingers on nutty, savoury complexity. Bold yet refined—a standout Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay.

Food Pairing
Excellent with roast chicken and truffle mash, creamy seafood chowder or seared scallops. Also delicious with pumpkin gnocchi or a soft-ripened cheese like Brie de Meaux.

Cellaring
Drinking well now but will continue to evolve. Best enjoyed through 2032 as it gains depth, nutty complexity and integration.

Interesting Fact
Elephant Hill’s Reserve range is produced only in vintages deemed exceptional. The 2021 release reflects both the warm growing season and the careful vineyard work that allows this wine to show power, precision and a true sense of place.

750ml 13.5%