Felton Road Bannockburn Chardonnay 2024
Felton Road Bannockburn Chardonnay 2024 is a dry, medium-bodied white from Chardonnay (Central Otago, New Zealand), in the rich, round whites style. Acidity is fresh; oak influence is some. Good with roast chicken, salmon, creamy pasta, lobster. Drink now or within 9 years (to about 2033). Biodynamic farming is mentioned by the merchant. Critic score 95/100 (merchant-reported).
| Wine | Sweet | Body | From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mercurey Blanc Premier Cru 'Les Veleys', Domaine François Raquillet 2022 Domaine François Raquillet · Burgundy | £37.60 | |||
| Bourgogne Blanc Les Setilles Olivier Leflaive 2024 Olivier Leflaive · Burgundy | £37.00 | |||
| Pouilly-Fuissé Vieilles Vignes, Meurgey-Croses 2022 Meurgey-Croses · Burgundy | £37.00 | |||
| Saint-Romain La Combe Bazin, Domaine Pascal Prunier-Bonheur 2016 Domaine Pascal Prunier-Bonheur · Burgundy | £37.00 |
Drink now or cellar for up to 9 years. Serve chilled. Founded in the 1990s by Stewart Elms, Felton Road has quickly become a benchmark New Zealand producer. The winery is now owned by Nigel Greening who has pioneered the use of biodynamic practices in the vineyard. Although he proclaims himself a “Pinot Noir addict”, Greening also has a sweet spot for Chardonnay, as does Felton Road’s winemaker Blair Walter who cut his teeth in Burgundy and Oregon. Wherever possible Greening and Walter adopt a hands-off approach, allowing the natural character of the variety to shine through in their complex and remarkably pure Kiwi wines. Fruit for their Bannockburn Chardonnay is sourced from four top vineyards, Cornish Point, Calvert, MacMuir and The Elms, which are all farmed biodynamically and certified under the Demeter system. The must is then fermented and aged in French oak barrels for 10 months before bottling. The result is a wonderfully complex, creamy Chardonnay with a bright streak of acidity that brings perfect poise and balance. Crisp grapefruit, white peach and honeyed notes define the nose while the palate offers a medium body, well-rounded texture and long finish seasoned with vanilla and cinnamon spice. A great partner for roast chicken, creamy fish dishes or hearty winter salads.