Coddington Chardonnay, Kumeu River 2021

25% new barrels. This is the vineyard that the Brajkovichs don’t own but have managed to negotiate a five-year contract rather than a one-year one recently. Heavy clay, north-facing suntrap. Just 700 cases.
Quite a subtle nose with a hint of putty. Really precise structure and yet open and fruity enough to enjoy already. There’s a certain peachiness on the end. Very appetising. 2022 - 2034

Flowering took place well ahead of normal. Yields were about 35% down overall because of spring frosts. The maximum temperature all summer was 29.2 degrees on the 9th of December which meant that 2021 was a long, cool, dry and sunny vintage which allowed for slow grape maturation, and the development of excellent fruit aromas and flavours. Harvest was completed on March 9th - about 3 weeks ahead of usual. The Coddington Chardonnay has a production of under 700 cases this year. Maturation was all in oak barrels with 25% Gillet barrels. 13.5% abv. Bright lemon colour with an immediate and impactful nose. Ripe peach, passion flower and a touch of tropical fruit together with spicy wood smoke and buttery roasted stone fruits. The palate is just as impressive, layering ripe, glossy fruit and generous spice together in a seductive package. Acidity keeps it all together, lively and mineral to give real focus. Coddington remains the more opulent of the single vineyard wines but recent vintages have added real depth and freshness. This is no exception. Excellent.