A focus on Lake Chalice Wines:
All of these focused, complex & dynamic Lake Chalice wines are ready to sip, savour & share. I am sure some of these labels crafted by head winemaker Chloe Gabrielsen and primarily sourced from the iconic Lake Chalice vineyards in Marlborough, are new to many readers. But the following selection of engaging, well balanced wines - are an ideal pairing with varied occasions and flavoursome cuisine. Here are a few brief words to describe my first impressions and the essence of each wine. A rewarding range of 6 honest wine expressions that are definitely worth sharing.
Remember - 'when & where possible, all wines tastes better when served from the appropriate glass and at the ideal temperature’.
The RAPTOR
Sauvignon Blanc 2020
Region: Dillions Point - Marlborough
Head Winemaker: Chloe Gabrielsen
The nose is intensely aromatic highlighting grapefruit, blackcurrant leaf & subtle flint notes. The palate is generous with layers of grapefruit, quince and a hint of passionfruit, this wine is also underpinned by subtle salt and mineral notes and a vibrant long finish.
(13% Alc. - *Dry Style).
• Chill gently & serve between 8°- 9°C
*Retail - NZ$24.99 : 4 Stars
The RAPTOR
Chardonnay 2020
Region: Wairau Valley - Marlborough
Head Winemaker: Chloe Gabrielsen
Engaging aromas of ripe stone-fruits, honey, citrus & almond notes. The complex palate is ever so appealing, with ripe peaches, melon, pineapple, balanced fruit acidity, and infused with vanilla oak, resulting in a rewarding wine with a classic dry finish.
(13% Alc. - R.S. 1.6g/L).
• Chill gently & serve between 8°- 10°C
*Retail - NZ$24.99 : 5 Stars
The RAPTOR
Pinot Noir 2019
Region: Waihopai Valley
Head Winemaker: Chloe Gabrielsen
On the nose ripe cherries, herbs with subtle spices and toasty oak. A fuller palate showcasing ripe berry fruits, spices, and subtle savoury nuances. The wines’ smooth structure and character leads to a luscious full cherry flavours with a good toasty-oak finish.
(14% Alc. - Dry Style)
• Mild decanting & serve between 15°- 17°C
*Retail - NZ$24.99 : 4 Stars
The RAPTOR
Syrah 2019
Region: Gimblett Gravels - Hawke's Bay
Head Winemaker: Chloe Gabrielsen
On the nose ripe black cherries and plum aromas enhanced with dried spices. The palate is approachable and full of dark berry fruits, along with a subtle mix of wild berries leading to an deft oak character and lingering nicely with a classic dry finish.
(13% Alc. - R.S. 0.5g/L)
• Mild decanting & serve between 17°- 18°C
*Retail - NZ$24.99 : 4 Stars
PLUME
Chardonnay 2016
Region: Waihopai Valley - Marlborough
Head Winemaker: Chloe Gabrielsen
An elegant aroma alludes to the deft nuances of white peaches, honeysuckle, buttered pop-corn along with citrus & almond biscotti. The palate has fleshy white peaches, gilled pineapple, wiped cream butter acidity, a deft mineral seam and delicately wrapped in vanilla oak.
(13% Alc. - R.S. 0.7g/L)
• Chill gently & serve between 8°- 10°C
*Retail - NZ$49.99 : 5 Stars
PLUME
Pinot Noir 2017
Region: Waihopai Valley - Marlborough
Head Winemaker: Chloe Gabrielsen
Well-structured with natural balance of varietal fruit character and fine tannins. On the nose bright aromas fill your glass, supported by mixed berry fruits which follow through onto a balanced palate and combine with savoury characters and pleasing smooth dry finish.
(13.5% Alc. - R.S. 2.0g/L)
• Mild decanting & serve between 15°- 17°C
*Retail - NZ$49.99 : 4 Stars
*(stock & vintage availability may vary by outlet & country)