Craggy Range Kidnappers Vineyard Chardonnay 2013

Cellar for up to 4 years. Serve chilled.

Despite only being founded in 1997, Craggy Range is today regarded as one of New Zealand’s finest boutique wineries. The family-run estate was originally founded by Master of Wine Steve Smith and Australian businessman Terry Peabody who dreamed of making world-class wines in the shadow of the Te Mata mountain in Hawke’s Bay.

Unlike many other wineries, they insist on only producing single vineyard wines which capture the unique terroir of that particular plot. Individual parcels are always fermented and aged separately to give Craggy Range’s enologists complete control over the final blend.

This stunning Chardonnay is a great example of their dedication to the art of winemaking, crafted with fruit from their cool but sunny Te Awanga vineyard. Once in the winery the fruit is fermented in stainless steel tanks and some oak casks where it’s left to mature for 8 months. This helps add a rich, creamy texture and subtle hints of oak and toast to the ripe tropical and orchard fruit notes. A great gastronomic wine that’s versatile enough to enjoy with Comté cheese, fresh pasta served with a rich truffle sauce, herby roast chicken, or most vegetarian dishes.