5 of NZ's finest sub $20 Chardonnays $15.99 to $19.99... all stylish, all great, all different!

Chardonnay is the most complex and thereby rewarding white wine experience. The fuller, rounder fruit flavours lending themselves perfectly to well considered oak, malolatic fermentation and lees stirring/aging. Chardonnay can be so much more satisfying than most white wine experiences. They cost more to make and prices have gone up globally as you know, so finding quality examples under $20 bottle is becoming more challenging. Below are three genuine barometers of style and class from $15.99-$19.99.

Villa Maria Cellar Selection Chardonnay 2022 - $15.99

Tastes: A wine that is about balance, texture, harmony and ultimately drinkable that will appeal to everyone, friends, and family alike. An elegant style with good concentration and exceptional quality for the price. Drinking well now through 2024 and perfect with a cheese platter, or summer salads.

2021 Rapaura Springs Reserve Chardonnay - $16.99

Tastes: Generous fruit, lots of stone fruit flavours, clean, fresh, and pure with zippy acid and judicious oak handling where the oaky nuances add length and a creamy texture. Well handled, drinking well now through 2025.

Spade Oak Voysey Chardonnay 2022 - $17.99

Tastes: A Gisborne fruit basket, ripe gala apples make an appearance alongside peach and toasted nuts, with a creamy texture sitting beautifully next to the thirst-quenching fruit. Dry and easy going, this will win many fans before it rolls vintage. Serve with your favourite poultry or pork dishes.

2022 Kumeu Village Chardonnay - $19.99

Tastes: Generous and richly fruited on the palate, there is subtle oak influence but lots of biscuity lees notes and lightly creamy with a fresh finish. Classic and stylish, it's ready to drink now or over the next 3+ years. An ideal partner to fish, soups, or goat cheese salad.

Coopers Creek Select Vineyard Limeworks Chardonnay 2021 - $19.99

Tastes: Creamy, smoky, and rich with hints of crème brulée, peach, caramel, and vanilla whipped cream, this is a seriously lovely Chardonnay for those who favour creamy and toasty with lots of flavour. Enjoy now or through 2025 with your choice of roasted white protein.