Isabel Estate Vineyard Marlborough Chardonnay Single Vineyard 2023

The concentrated flavor of old wood

One of Marlborough's oldest Chardonnays. A trusted Chardonnay built over 40 years.

This Chardonnay is arguably "one of Marlborough's most authentic Chardonnays" because of Isabel Estate's history of growing Chardonnay here.

They planted Chardonnay in the 1980s, just as Marlborough was beginning to gain attention as New Zealand's newest wine region. While many wineries planted large amounts of Sauvignon Blanc (and Isabel did, of course), they also planted and carefully nurtured Chardonnay.

The Chardonnay used in this "Single Vineyard" is still thriving today, with the vines already 40 years old. Unlike the more efficient young vines, the concentrated flavor of the old vines can now be enjoyed.

Wine making

The wine is made from grapes from a single vineyard in the Wairau Valley sub-region of Marlborough, and is fermented 100% in carefully selected French oak barrels (including new oak) before being aged on the lees for 10 months.

Reflecting the cool climate typical of Marlborough, it has a rich volume while maintaining a clean acidity that gives the overall profile a crisp finish.

Tasting Comments

"The rich fruitiness of old vines and the silky creaminess of the wine"

From the glass, the rich aroma of ripe white peach and nectarine is layered with fragrant nuances of nuts and toast from the barrel.

When you put it in your mouth, the concentrated, energetic fruit flavor from the over 40-year-old vines spreads all at once.

The sur lie gives it a creamy, rich texture, but it's never too heavy, thanks to the beautiful acidity that runs through it like a core.

The elegant minerality that lingers on the palate acts as a bridge between the flavors and the food.

Pairing suggestions

The wine's clean acidity will whet your appetite for the meal, while its creamy texture will gently envelop the ingredients.

• Sautéed white fish or shellfish (in butter sauce) : The creaminess of the wine and the richness of the butter are a perfect match.
• Roast chicken : The concentrated fruitiness from the old vines perfectly complements the umami of the chicken.
• Mushroom and bacon quiche : The fragrant aroma from the barrel and the earthy nuances of the mushrooms combine to create a deep pairing.

Isabel Estate has been working with Chardonnay here for over 40 years, uninfluenced by trends. Their single vineyard wines have a concentrated flavor thanks to the age of the vines, resulting in a rich yet elegant finish.

If you're looking for a reliable Chardonnay that will elevate your everyday dining experience, this is the one for you.

About the Winery "Isabel Estate Vineyard"

Isabel Estate is a winery located in the Wairau Valley in the Marlborough region of New Zealand's South Island. The cool climate, with long hours of sunshine and large temperature differences between day and night, cultivates grapes with excellent acidity and aroma. The well-drained gravelly soil mixed with clay provides the ideal environment for producing wines with concentrated fruit and complexity.

Background of the company's founding

Isabel Estate began in 1980. Founder Mike Tiller, a former pilot, spotted this land from the air while flying. Attracted by the ideal topography and climate, he and his wife Robin began growing grapes. The winery was named after Mike's mother, Isabel. In 1994, they released their first vintage under their own brand, marking the start of their journey as a quality-focused winery.

Winemaking philosophy

Isabel Estate's motto is "wine that reflects the vineyard," and they are committed to growing and vinifying grapes 100% from their own vineyards. High-density plantings, rare even in Marlborough, and limited yields allow for concentrated fruit flavors, supported by delicate vinification using natural yeasts and French oak. Isabel's style is to bring out the unique characteristics of the land and varietals without unnecessary intervention.

People and Teams

Currently, winemaking is led by Marlborough-born winemaker Jeremy Mackenzie, who has experience working at renowned wineries overseas and is committed to creating wines that reflect the local terroir. His Chardonnay has been highly praised both in New Zealand and abroad, and in recent years he has been awarded the country's Winemaker of the Year award.

Quietly but surely, a skill that is highly acclaimed

Isabel Estate's wines are not flashy, but rather captivate drinkers with their depth of flavor and refined structure. Their Chardonnay in particular has won top awards at national awards in multiple vintages, and they are recognized as one of Marlborough's leading wineries with a quiet presence and solid ability.

About Marlborough

Marlborough is the heart of New Zealand's wine region.

Marlborough has ideal natural conditions for grape growing, such as abundant sunshine and large temperature differences throughout the day, and produces over 80% of New Zealand's wine.

Among them, Sauvignon Blanc, characterized by its crisp acidity and overflowing fruitiness, boasts an overwhelming production volume and is loved worldwide for its unique character. In red wine, Pinot Noir, with its rich berry fruit flavor, is also popular.

Isabel Estate Vinyards Marlborough Chardonnay Single Vinyard 2023

item	Content
Winery Name	Isabel Estate Vineyard
Country of origin	new zealand
Origin	Marlborough
kinds	white
Grape varieties	Chardonnay
Vintage	2023
Alcohol content	13.5%
capacity	750ml
others	Sustainable Certification AMW Vegan Friendly
remarks	screw cap