This is fruit from new plantings in this vineyard at 180m altitude with a Northerly aspect, this is dry farmed and vinified 100% in barrel but mostly old. There are notes of orange peel, stone fruit and white grapefruit pith. There is some flesh on the palate, apricot fruit richness with a lovely sense of freshness that runs through the finish with a breath of sea spray.

2024 was a very dry season giving rise very low yields but with added concentration. This is a blend of 6 vineyards each with their own range of styles. A true benchmark Chardonnay with layers of complexity. 20% new French barrels, there is a subtle flinty note, orange peel, fresh apricot and orchard fruit, with notes of acacia and blossom. Bright and zesty on the palate the finish is long and mouthwatering.

The grapes for this are predominantly estate owned, with 42% coming from Kumeu, 32% from Ray’s Road and 26% bought in from long term trusted growers. This is vinified in 38% old barrels, and the rest in stainless steel giving a bright zesty wine, fresh pear, orange peel and orchard fruit. A little peach and custard note, this is fresh, fun and lively.

From a 3.8 hectare plot in Remelluri the 2021 Yjar is a future legend in the making from this excellent vintage in Rioja. It is classically proportioned with an innate elegance, opening with notes of wild herbs, lavander, fresh red cherry and rose petal notes. The palate is sinewy with so much detail to the fruit, it builds across the palate with an energy and nuance that makes it difficult to forget. A wine of real refinement, the finish is so wonderfully articulated and beguiling.

The 2017 Blanc de Blanc which has spent around 80 months ageing under lees before disgorgement offers a striking nose of toasted brioche, struck flint, apricot pastry and preserved ginger. The palate finds the perfect match between richness and creaminess and the tell-tale brightness and vibrancy that comes from Chardonnay on Sussex chalk. This is a real success, full of complexity with a biscuity finish with accents of mandarin skin.

The 2017 Blanc de Blanc which has spent around 80 months ageing under lees before disgorgement offers a striking nose of toasted brioche, struck flint, apricot pastry and preserved ginger. The palate finds the perfect match between richness and creaminess and the tell-tale brightness and vibrancy that comes from Chardonnay on Sussex chalk. This is a real success, full of complexity with a biscuity finish with accents of mandarin skin.

Always a favourite from the Penfolds range, the St Henri Shiraz is fabulous. Beautifully expressive with waves of violets, tapenade, incence and cocoa this only grows with air and with time. There is a real sense of balance and harmony, and with ageing this will come together very well.