2022 Elephant Hill Salome Chardonnay

Brand	Elephant Hill
Region	Hawkes Bay
Varietal	Chardonnay
Size	750ml
Alcohol %	13.5%
Vintage	2022
Country	New Zealand

From the pinnacle of Elephant Hill’s portfolio, Salome Chardonnay is a tribute to excellence, heritage, and place. Named after a famed Weiss family ancestor, this limited Icon release is only crafted in standout vintages. And while 2022 posed some challenges, the result is a triumph — with 97 points from Sam Kim, 96 from Cameron Douglas, and 94 from Rebecca Gibb MW. Sourced primarily (98%) from a prized, stony-shelf parcel in their Te Awanga vineyard, with a touch (2%) from Bridge Pa, the fruit was whole bunch pressed, naturally fermented with indigenous yeasts, and saw 11 months in barrel followed by 7 months in tank on light lees. The result? A luxuriously textured, complex and elegant Chardonnay that ranks among New Zealand’s finest. Truly, an Icon in every sense.

creamy layers of freshly baked sourdough thickly spread with butter, hazelnuts and vanilla pods are underpinned by peach skin, prince melon, greengage, and a dash of lemon zest.

The aromas are rich and enticing whereas the palate surprisingly shows restraint. Stone fruit abounds with a knife-cutting acidity that gives laser definition, all superbly balanced by the rich, oily concentrated mid-palate. This really needs 3-4 years in a temperature-controlled cellar, and then you will agree that 2022 is simply the best. Perfect with all white protein. The recommended serving temperature is 10-13 degrees.