Dry River Chardonnay 2020
Dry River was established in 1979, making it one of the very first in Marlborough, with the first wines, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer and Pinot Gris were bottled in 1984 and Dry River has since developed a reputation as one of New Zealand’s most iconic pioneering wineries.
Citrus fruit with lemon custard, biscotti and brioche all bring a complexity while the white flowers and lemon blossom provide freshness. The nose shows minerality, general tidiness and archetypal Chardonnay characters. On the palate, the wine has a clear progression from the front, across the mid and to the back of the mouth. The dress code is classic; textured yet neat, organised and well proportioned. We can thank the acidity for this. Yet, there is a disorder lurking in the background, like an untucked shirt and socks in mismatched colours. This is the touch of funk from a long drawn out wild ferment (6 months) with 17 months on lees and freedom to roam into the unknown.
The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Chardonnay
Country - New Zealand
Region - Martinborough
Vintage - 2020
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 13.5%