| Region | |
|---|---|
| Subregion | New Zealand > Auckland |
| Colour | White |
| Type | Still |
The 2020 Coddington Chardonnay is ripe and plump in the mouth, tailed by very fine, chalky acidity and tannins. Far from being boisterous or explosive, this unfolds with an orderly, organized outlay of flavor and texture, each quality woven into the other. Exciting drinking here, with wonderful, piercing intensity of flavor. 13.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.
The Coddington vineyard has invariably produced the most luscious, rich wines in Kumeu River's range since the decision to bottle it separately in 2006. Hand harvested and whole-bunch pressed, the wine is fermented and matured in barrel, all of which are well toasted from Claude Gillet in St Romain. 30% new oak in 2020. This year Michael said that about 1% of the grapes had some botrytis - giving an extra touch of apricot on the nose and palate. Only 700 dozen produced of what we feel is the best Coddington that we have ever tasted. Bright lemon colour. Luscious peach and apricot fruit on this powerful, expansive nose. This is ripe and instense yet perfectly balanced, finding a layers of gun smoke and sweet spices. The palate is fleshy and full, rich in apricot, cream and a hint of marmalade but the tang of juicy acidity brings ample freshness throughout. Smoky fruits continue to burst through in waves but the structure makes the wine approachable despite its richness. An outstanding Coddington.
From the Coddington vineyard. Pale greenish straw colour. Broad, rather floral nose with some light chewiness on the end. Not quite ready yet. Hint of lemon peel on the finish. Not the most intense Kumeu Chardonnay but very 'pleasant' for now! It will surely bloom in bottle. 13.5% Drink 2022 – 2028
Oak – 100% barrel fermentation in 25% new French oak and 100% malolactic fermentation with 11 months maturation in barrel.
Coddington is my pick of the two ‘Premiers Crus’ not least because it is seamless, refined and already completely integrated. This is a sensual wine with wonderful texture and refinement. Sometimes Coddington looks a little light and feeble, by comparison to HH and Maté’s but in 2020 it is a shimmering beauty. In value terms, you are still only matching up to a low-level Saint-Aubin, so this wine, again, aces it against Burgundian competition.
This is a wine of real purity and elegance with fresh sliced peaches and lemons, as well as some light pastry notes. The palate is fine, unwaveringly long and pure with enlivening acidity through the finish. Stunning. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
