Lake Chalice ‘Plume’ Chardonnay 2022
Grape Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
Growing Region: Waihopai Valley, Marlborough - New Zealand
Head Winemaker: Chloe Gabrielsen
I have been enjoying Lake Chalice wines for over 30 years, appreciating their vibrant, varietal wines from this founding Marlborough winery. They have developed a trusted reputation for crafting honest wines that reflect their sense of place and now under the passionate guidance of Chloe and a talented team continuing to expressive character filled wines.
The fruit for this wine comes from a single vineyard owned and meticulously cared for by Peter & Ann Reed, which is situated in the Lower Waihopai Valley in Marlborough - (they also provide the wonderful fruit for ‘The Raptor’ Chardonnay). The Chardonnay for this wine was carefully hand-picked and on arrival into the winery the whole bunches were gently pressed first to tank. Where the juice stayed for just a short period - before promptly being transferred into oak barrels. The wine underwent a primary wild fermentation followed by a natural malolactic fermentation. The wine was stirred regularly on its lees for a period, then left to develop in oak for around 10 months.
Then came the selection of only the very best barrels to craft this precise cuvée. Each chosen to add a specific nuance and layer of complexity to the final blend. Chloe is the first to acknowledge and appreciate the wonderful freedom to be able to be so selective finding just the right harmonious nuances for this 2022 expression. Each with a unique influence, texture and flavour profile giving this wine its unique signature.
★ A light bright pale straw colour illuminates the glass. On the beguiling nose you are met by aromas of ripe melon, buttered popcorn, ripe apples, peach skin, biscotti and a deft vanilla note. The medium-to-broad palate has a confident style and grace that commands your tastebuds attention, showcasing grilled white peaches, almond biscotti and multi layers each with a defined character and flavour of note. This wine has a good amount of natural fruit acidity keeping focus on its target of a remarkable dry finish.
This 2022 Lake Chalice ‘Plume’ Marlborough Chardonnay has 13% Alc./vol. • Crafted in a classic dry style • Chill gently and serve in an appropriate medium style wine glass at 8° - 10°C • *NZ$52.00
CELLARING POTENTIAL: *(Review 23/5/25)
Drinking perfectly well this season - plus will develop and age gracefully for another 5 - 6 years.
FOOD PAIRING SUGGESTIONS:
Perfect wine pairing with lemon-honey glazed roast chicken on a gruyere potato mash, pork-n-crackling with an apple sauce and steamed greens, plus mild creamy cheeses on lightly toasted ciabatta - enjoy.
