An immensely popular... and fair to say... “Legendary” premium Hawke's Bay Chardonnay from Babich, a family owned Kiwi winery with over 100-years of winemaking pedigree. The Irongate vineyard was first planted in 1981 and its first Chardonnay released in 1985... 33 vintages and no duds, just some better than others. 2018 was an excellent vintage on the Gimblett Gravels reflected in this wine. However, this Irongate seems to have stepped up another level. $29.90 is a fabulous price to pay for a Chardonnay of this impeccable quality... were it from the home of Chardonnay in white Burgundy... you could pay many times the price to enjoy this quality.

The wine….

This Irongate seems to have stepped up another level. It has outstanding fruit as you would expect from this vineyard, vine age and quality of vintage... but the balance of winemaking is impeccable. Holding the new oak to only 20% of the mix and 10-months of lees aging has achieved exceptional harmony and richness whilst allowing the purity and balance of the fruit to shine. Peach, brioche, cashew, lemon sherbet and vanilla... an enchanting aromatic experience. Mealy and rich, with butterscotch and spicy nutty complexities juxtaposed by pure, fresh fresh peach and citrus energising the flavours to a persistent and nuanced finish. An outstanding and complex Chardonnay that will develop beautifully through 2023-2025 then drink through 2028. Should be amazing with fresh seafood, roast poultry & pork.

The price of Irongate has not moved in circa 15-years... it was a good buy then... it has morphed into the realms of exceptional these days. 2018 Irongate is the finest ever in my opinion... paying $38.00 for it elsewhere and you’ll have gotten a serious bargain... paying $29.90 at Fine Wine Delivery and you’ll find yourself in Chardonnay nirvana! Enjoy, Jeff