Paddy Borthwick Chardonnay 2023

Winemaking
The 2023 Paddy Borthwick Chardonnay is grown on the family’s Gladstone estate in Wairarapa, where gravelly soils and cool nights shape a wine of structure and precision. Fruit was hand-harvested and whole-bunch pressed before wild fermentation in French oak barriques (30% new). The wine underwent full malolactic fermentation and was aged on lees for 10 months with bâtonnage, building texture, complexity and a beautifully integrated palate.

Bouquet
The nose is expressive and mineral-driven, with aromas of white peach, grapefruit and lemon peel. Hints of flint, roasted cashew and fine oak spice add savoury intrigue and elegance.

Palate
Textural and vibrant, the palate flows with citrus, nectarine and creamy lees. A chalky mineral thread runs beneath, giving focus and energy. Fine acidity balances the richness, leading to a long, flinty finish with depth and finesse.

Food Pairing
Ideal with grilled fish, roast chicken with lemon and thyme, or creamy risotto. Also excellent with mushroom tarts, soft cheeses, or seafood in a beurre blanc sauce.

Cellaring
Drinking beautifully now, but will evolve gracefully through 2030 as it gains savoury detail and nutty complexity.

Interesting Fact
Paddy Borthwick’s family has farmed the same land in Gladstone for five generations. His winemaking blends tradition with innovation, delivering expressive, site-focused wines from one of Wairarapa’s most underrated subregions.