Neudorf, Rosie's Block Chardonnay, Moutere Hills, 2015

Neudorf, based in Nelson on New Zealand’s South Island, was set up by Tim and Judy Finn back in 1978. After years of experimentation and development with differing grape varieties, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay became synonymous with the winery. They do produce excellent wines from other varieties too, and Rosie’s Block, a vineyard purchased in 1999 and named after the Finns’ daughter, is also planted to Riesling and Albariño. This block is north-facing, on clay-gravel soils, and is run organically. Impressively, this is also a dry-farmed vineyard (no irrigation), which makes it a real rarity in New Zealand. Melanie Brown: A beautifully curated example of Nelson Chardonnay. Layers of fine fruit meld with pure minerality. It is richly textured with bright acid and an enormous potential for further ageing. Poised and exciting to see. Rebecca Gibb MW: Creamy and nutty with a lovely silky texture; someone has handled their phenolics well. A medium-bodied style that is positively restrained, leading enticingly onto a taut and fine finish. Roger Jones: A charming, clean and fresh wine whose divine elegance shows clearly. The acidity brings this wine full circle and makes it a complete, delightful example of Chardonnay.