Southern Lines Chardonnay

Description

Southern Lines is a new project from an established family vineyard in New Zealand's acclaimed Marlborough region. While the area is (quite rightly) known for their exuberant expressions of Sauvignon Blanc, there's been growing interest in the region's other whites, and one sip of this Chardonnay should show you why! If you're on the fence about Chardonnay in general, this is a great interpretation that sits somewhere on the spectrum between California's creamy, oak- and vanilla-laden examples and more lean, mineral-driven bottlings from France. In fact, cool-climate Marlborough allows Chardonnay to retain the all-important acidity that lends freshness to a finished wine, while ample sunshine provides optimal ripening for plenty of bold fruit flavours. Judicious use of minimal oak aging softens the final wine, adding texture and depth. Enjoy this balanced Chardonnay over the next 3 years at about 10 C.

Pairing

Match this balanced Chardonnay with fall favourites like butternut squash soup, roast poultry, or baked ham with mashed potatoes.