Product Description
The Valli Waitaki Vineyard Chardonnay 2020 is a striking expression of the unique terroir of New Zealand’s Waitaki Valley. Grown in limestone-rich soils, this wine is a masterclass in balance and complexity. The nose is immediately fresh and enticing, with a bouquet of lemon juice, green apple, and candied zest, complemented by a subtle savoury note that adds depth. This complexity is derived from the high solids fermentation, which adds richness and texture to the wine. On the palate, the tautly textured mid-palate is harmoniously balanced by a racy acidity, enhancing the length of the wine. At its core, the wine displays remarkable fruit purity, making it both intensely focused and subtly nuanced. Made in small quantities, this Chardonnay is an immediately intriguing wine, with the potential to evolve gracefully over the next 12+ years.
“The limestone-rich soils influence both the shape and the flow of this wine with exquisite harmony between the tautly textured mid-palate and the racy acidity that increases the length. The nose is immediately fresh and complex with lemon juice, green apple, candied zest, and a distinctive savoury note that is derived from the high solids fermentation. The wine is a juxtaposition of intensity and subtlety with real fruit purity at the core. Made in tiny quantities, this wine is immediately intriguing and should continue to evolve for 12+ years.” Jen Parr - July 2023
Perfectly suited to a range of dishes, from fresh seafood like oysters and lobster to roasted poultry and creamy pastas. Its fresh acidity and texture also pair well with rich, soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert.
The Valli Waitaki Vineyard Chardonnay 2020 is a premium wine that encapsulates the essence of the Waitaki Valley – a wine that is both complex and harmonious, reflecting its exceptional vineyard and meticulous winemaking practices.
Maker:
Valli is the personal vocation of pioneering winemaker Grant Taylor a name that's synonymous with Otago Pinot Noir. He has been crafting wines there since 1993 when there were only 20 ha planted – today there are over 2000. Grant founded Valliin 1998 with the intention to produce single vineyard Pinot Noirs highlighting the different characteristics of Otago’s sub regions. More than 20 years later, Valli is doing just that, producing single-vineyard pinot noirs from Gibbston, Bannockburn, and Bendigo in Central Otago and the Waitaki Valley in North Otago, as well as a dry Pinot Gris from Gibbston and a Riesling from Waitaki. In 2015, established Otago winemaker Jen Parr joined Grant in the winery, where the two aim to create wines with honesty, integrity, and most of all, a sense of place. When you drink a Valli wine, you are enjoying more than just a wine: you are experiencing a place.
Vineyard | VALLI Waitaki:
Nestled in the maritime-influenced climate of the Waitaki Valley, the Valli Waitaki Vineyard is a remarkable site that benefits from limestone-based soils and a unique growing environment. The vineyard, planted in 2004-2005, is located at an altitude of 200 metres, where the combination of cool temperatures and rich, well-drained soils create the perfect conditions for growing grapes with intense aromatics and minerality. The region’s climate, slightly cooler than Central Otago, helps to preserve the natural acidity in the grapes, resulting in wines of great freshness and balance. With a vine density of 5,000 vines per hectare and a focus on early ripening clones from Dijon and Pommard, the vineyard produces small quantities of exceptional Chardonnay that reflect the purity and elegance of the land.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Complex and Fresh
An enticing bouquet of vibrant citrus notes, with lemon juice and green apple leading the way. Candied zest and a subtle savoury complexity provide additional intrigue, while the high solids fermentation imparts a layer of richness and depth.
Palate
Taut, Textured, and Balanced
A beautiful contrast between intensity and subtlety. The mid-palate is taut and textured, while a fresh vein of acidity runs through the wine, providing length and vibrancy. Flavours of lemon, green apple, and subtle oak spice mingle with hints of minerality. A harmonious and complex mouthfeel.
Finish
Lingering and Pure
Long and elegant with citrus notes and a mineral freshness that speaks to the wine’s limestone-rich terroir. The fine acidity provides a clean, refreshing end to each sip, promising further development with time.
Reviews + Accolades
- Bob Campbell MW, The Real Review - 96/100 Points
- Erin Larkin, The Wine Advocate - 95/100 Points
- Cameron Douglas MS - 94/100 Points
- Michael Cooper - 5 Stars
- New Zealand International Wine Show - Silver Medal
- Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous.com - 91/100 Points
The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Chardonnay
Country - New Zealand
Region - Central Otago
Vintage - 2020
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 13.5%
Sale
