1998 Kumeu River Mates' Vineyard Chardonnay

This is Rosemount Estate's equivalent in New Zealand. A generous, full bodied and highly concentrated Chardonnay which has strong parallels to Rosemount Estate's Roxburgh and Giants Creek.Brilliant deep straw colour. There is no apologies from the nose, nothing is held back and one is quick to appreciate the monumentality of what is to follow. Very distinct barrel ferment aroma, indicating layers of complexity that are to be found on the palate. Butterscotch, almond, biscuit and yeast lees are perfectly integrated with toasted oak and are carried through to a full bodied highly concentrated palate. There is no doubt that this is a winemakers wine with the secondary flavours remaining dominant, whilst allowing the underlying fruit grapefruit and melon fruit to still express itself. Excellent length with very long butterscotch, almond and yeast lees aftertaste. Cellar 3-5 years.