Isabel Estate Vineyards Marlborough Wild Barrique Chardonnay 2022

Mellow and Rich Concentrated Chardonnay

Full-bodied Oak Aroma

This Chardonnay has a distinct character from the moment it touches your palate. It doesn't have the same fruitiness as other NZ Chardonnays.

Instead, what emerges is a smooth, butterscotch-like texture, with nuances of roasted nuts and flint. Beneath that, you can discern ripe white peach and nectarine-like fruit flavors.

It's a wine with a subtle, restrained tone, yet a strong sense of concentration.

Old Vines and Wild Yeast are Key

The Chardonnay vines, over 30 years old, are from the oldest blocks within Isabel Estate.

The vineyards are densely planted, yielding small but concentrated fruit every year. Grapes are hand-picked in the morning and gently whole-bunch pressed in the afternoon. Natural fermentation and one year of aging take place in French oak, with 30% new oak. An additional five months of aging follows before bottling.

Only wild yeasts are used. Natural fermentation and extended sur lie aging impart roundness and depth to the wine.

It offers a pleasant richness that leaves you feeling satisfied with every sip.
"It has strong power and complexity."
That's this Chardonnay.

Aroma and Taste: Layers of Butter, Flint, and White Peach

A butterscotch-like aroma is layered with delicate citrus and white peach, while after swallowing, the savory notes of flint, toast, nuts, and grains quietly linger. The taste is rich yet restrained, leading to a long finish with smooth acidity.

Recommended Pairings

• Sole Meunière

  The mellow character of the wine harmonizes beautifully with the delicate sweetness of the fish.

• Smoked Salmon Risotto

  The smoky aroma and rich rice pair well with the oak notes.

• Chicken Fricassee (Cream Stew)

  The wine's acidity cuts through the creaminess of the dish, preventing it from feeling heavy.

• Carbonara

  The umami of bacon and the richness of egg blend perfectly with the Chardonnay's structure for an exquisite combination.

• White Mold Cheese (Brie, Camembert, etc.)

  The roundness of the wine and the creaminess of the cheese create an irresistible mariage.

Enjoy it at a leisurely weekend dinner. Savor it slowly, taking time to appreciate its aromas. It might be even more enjoyable if served at a slightly warmer temperature. The finish of this Chardonnay is sure to be memorable.

About the Winery "Isabel Estate Vineyards"

Isabel Estate is a winery located in the Wairau Valley, Marlborough region of the South Island of New Zealand. The cool climate, characterized by long sunshine hours and significant diurnal temperature variations, nurtures grapes with excellent acidity and aromatics. The well-drained gravelly soil mixed with clay in this area provides an ideal environment for producing wines with concentrated fruit and complexity.

Founding History

Isabel Estate began in 1980. Founder Mike Tiller, a former pilot, discovered this land from above during a flight. Drawn by its ideal topography and climate, he started grape cultivation with his wife, Robyn. The winery was named after Mike's mother, Isabel. In 1994, they released their first vintage under their own brand, embarking on a serious journey as a quality-focused winery.

Winemaking Philosophy

Isabel Estate upholds the principle of "wines that reflect the vineyard," committing to 100% estate-grown grapes and winemaking. Unusually high-density planting and yield restriction for Marlborough concentrate the fruit flavors, supported by delicate winemaking utilizing natural yeasts and French oak. Isabel's style involves minimal intervention to bring out the unique character of the land and varietal.

People and Team

Currently, winemaking is led by Marlborough-native winemaker Jeremy McKenzie. Leveraging his experience at renowned international wineries, he focuses on crafting wines that express the local terroir. His Chardonnays have received high acclaim both in New Zealand and internationally, and he has recently been honored with the country's best winemaker award.

Quietly, but Surely Acclaimed Quality

Isabel Estate's wines captivate drinkers not with flashy impact, but with depth of flavor and elegant structure. Among them, their Chardonnay has won top awards in national competitions for multiple vintages, establishing Isabel as one of Marlborough's leading wineries with a quiet presence and undeniable quality.

About Marlborough Region

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

With abundant sunshine and significant diurnal temperature variations, it boasts favorable natural conditions for grape cultivation, producing over 80% of NZ's wine.

Among these, Sauvignon Blanc, known for its crisp acidity and abundant fruit flavors, accounts for an overwhelming production volume and is widely loved worldwide for its unique character. For red wines, Pinot Noir, with its rich berry fruit flavors, is popular.

Isabel Estate Vineyards Marlborough Wild Barrique Chardonnay 2023