White
North and South America are home to some of the most exciting and innovative white wine producers in the world. From crisp and refreshing Sauvignon Blancs to rich and complex Chardonnays, these regions have a diverse range of terroirs and climates that produce exceptional white wines.
In North America, some of the most famous vineyards producing white wines include Napa Valley's Robert Mondavi Winery, known for their full-bodied and rich Chardonnays. Another renowned producer is Washington State's Chateau Ste. Michelle, which produces a range of white wines including Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay.
In South America, Chile's Casablanca Valley is known for producing some of the best white wines in the region, with renowned vineyards such as Viña Casablanca and Matetic Vineyards. These vineyards produce delicious Chardonnays, Sauvignon Blancs, and even lesser-known varietals such as Gewürztraminer and Riesling.
Argentina's Mendoza region is also gaining a reputation for its white wines, particularly its Torrontés, which is a floral and aromatic white wine that pairs well with spicy foods.
Other notable white wine regions in North America include Canada's Niagara Peninsula, which produces crisp and refreshing Rieslings and Sauvignon Blancs, and Oregon's Willamette Valley, which is known for its crisp and acidic Pinot Gris.
In South America, Uruguay's coastal region of Canelones is emerging as a producer of elegant and mineral-driven white wines made from grapes such as Albariño and Chardonnay.
Overall, the white wines of North and South America offer a wide range of styles and flavors, from crisp and refreshing to rich and complex. With their commitment to quality and innovation, these regions are sure to continue producing exceptional white wines that can compete with the best in the world.
White
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Wine Advocate (93)
The 2022 Chardonnay, vinified without malolactic conversion and matured in stainless steel, opens with inviting aromas of quince, white peaches, toasted meringue and citrus blossom streaked with hints of matchstick and saline. The medium-bodied palate balances ripe, floral fruit with focused acidity, and a touch of textural breadth lengthens the finish. It combines the verve of Chablis with the ripeness of California. It deserves 2-3 years in bottle to unwind.Inc. VAT£149.98 -
Relish the opulence of Donelan Sonoma Coast Chardonnay Genevieves Block 2016, a world-class wine capturing the finest elements of Sonoma Coast terroir. Hailing from the prestigious boutique Californian winery, Donelan Family, this brilliant vintage marries traditional craftsmanship with sustainable practices. The meticulously chosen, handpicked grapes, aged in French oak for 11 months, imbue an alluring aroma and complex flavour palette. Burgeoning with nuances of citrus, ripe apple, pear, and honeyed undertones, the Chardonnay captures the perfect balance of acidity and richness. The aged burgundy wine exhibits a buttery texture and an impeccably long finish, promising a captivating tasting experience. This rare gem from Sonoma Coast epitomises Donelan Family's commitment to crafting exceptional, distinctive wines true to their origins. Indulge in the Donelan Sonoma Coast Chardonnay Genevieves Block 2016 experience highlighting lush, full-bodied structure and unwavering quality – the quintessential choice for the discerning oenophile.
Inc. VAT£1,157.21 -
Experience the elegance of the Donnachadh Estate Chardonnay 2019, a quintessential expression from the renowned Donnachadh Estate in Tasmania’s pristine vineyard landscapes. Crafted with meticulous care, the Chardonnay grapes were hand-harvested at optimal ripeness, ensuring superior quality. Fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, this vintage preserves the vibrant fruit flavours and delicate acidity characteristic of the region. A subtle ageing process in French oak barrels imparts nuanced notes of vanilla and toasted almond, harmoniously blending with the wine’s natural citrus and stone fruit aromas. The expert viticulturists at Donnachadh Estate uphold sustainable farming practices, reflecting their commitment to excellence and the environment. This 2019 Chardonnay boasts a refined palate with a balanced minerality and a smooth, lingering finish, making it a distinguished choice for fine wine enthusiasts. Whether savoured alone or paired with gourmet cuisine, the Donnachadh Estate Chardonnay 2019 exemplifies sophistication and craftsmanship.
Inc. VAT£88.13 -
Wine Advocate (95)
The 2020 Estate Chardonnay matured for 10 months in about 20% new oak and an additional six months in stainless steel. It has deep scents of baked apples, toast, honey and hay with hints of chaparral and cream. The medium-bodied palate offers surprising concentration, exploding with savory apple flavors. It has a satiny texture, bright balancing acidity and a long, flavorful finish.Inc. VAT£660.07 -
Revel in the sophisticated experience of the Duckhorn Napa Valley Chardonnay 2021. Its creations from Duckhorn Vineyards in Napa, California, have commanded respect among critics and connoisseurs alike since 1976. This multifaceted Chardonnay, meticulously aged in French Oak barrels for ten months, is imbued with opulent flavours and aromatic complexities. A layered palate of ripe apple, spiced pear, and tropical fruit is deftly balanced with minerality and hints of toasty brioche. Its longevity, crisp acidity, and creamy texture present an enchanting dance of depth and gracefulness worthy of its righteous place in the sublime world of fine wine. Possessing a lineage of remarkable excellence and refinement, the Duckhorn Napa Valley Chardonnay 2021 illuminates the procured craft of winemaking. Its radiant finesse and profoundness beckon a discerning palate in search of the perfect embodiment of Napa Valley's winemaking prowess.
Inc. VAT£233.60 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (96)
The 2021 Chardonnay DuMOL Estate Vineyard is a powerful, phenolic, driving wine. Sage, crushed rocks, lemon peel, mint, white pepper and dried herbs infuse the Estate with tremendous complexity. High-density plantings of Mount Eden clone Chardonnay on this site yield a wine of tremendous distinctiveness and vibrancy.Inc. VAT£606.35 -
(6x75cl) 2022Jeb Dunnuck (96)
From a site surrounded by dense forest on two sides, the 2022 Chardonnay DuMOL Estate Vineyard is a bright straw hue and has a more vibrant aromatic nose of fresh mint, bright lime, flint, crushed stones, and white peach. Medium to full-bodied, it boasts a remarkably firm structure with a bit of tannin, a chalky texture, and a savory slanting profile, and it’s long and persistent on the finish. It has an assertive but crystalline feel and a crunchy brightness. It demands a bit of time. Drink 2025-2035.Inc. VAT£526.33 -
(6x75cl) 2016Vinous (93)
The 2016 Chardonnay Isobel Charles Heintz Vineyard has picked up lovely freshness over the last year and shows good focus, if less of the oiliness that is so typical of wine from this highly regarded Sonoma Coast site. There is plenty of character and verve, although the Isobel is decidedly understated and hushed next to the other Chardonnays in this range.Inc. VAT£437.60 -
The Wine Independent (99)
The 2021 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard needs quite a bit of coaxing to unlock notes of ripe yellow apples, grapefruit oil, orange peel, and juicy peaches, leading to wafts of wet slate, shaved ginger, and almond croissant. The medium-bodied palate has super-charged intensity, delivering layer upon layer of citrus, stone fruit, and mineral flavors with a silky texture and laser-precise acidity, finishing with incredible length and so many citrus and mineral sparks. This is phenomenal Chardonnay! These Hyde Vineyard vines were planted in 1986. "Hyde were the first to do custom growing and they do it so well," commented DuMOL's winemaker, Andy Smith. "The shoot growth in 2021 was very low and the yields were down from a typical 21 barrels to 17 barrels. But I believe this is the best quality is the best they've ever had from here." I agree. For number crunchers, the pH is 3.38, and ABV is 13.7%.Inc. VAT£597.46 -
Jeb Dunnuck (98)
The upper third of the Hyde Vineyard goes into this bottling and the lower part goes into the HHS. The nose of the 2022 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard is spectacular, with notes of honeycomb, fresh pear, white flowers, and honeyed lemon. The palate offers incredible texture and vibrant fresh acidity, with an elegant feel and a long, long finish. A mouthwatering white, it’s going to be worth laying down and checking in on in a few years. Drink 2026-2038. 22 barrels produced.Inc. VAT£556.66 -
Jeb Dunnuck (98)
One of my favorites in the lineup was the 2016 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard, which comes from 23-year-old vines planted in one of the reference point vineyards in Carneros. Lemon, apricot, spice, flower oils, and tangerine skin are just some of the nuances here, and it builds with time in the glass. Deep, awesomely concentrated, and structured, yet still seamless and weightless, give it a year or two, count yourself lucky, and enjoy bottles over the coming 10-15 years.Inc. VAT£412.44 -
(6x75cl) 2021Vinous - Antonio Galloni (92-94)
The 2021 Chardonnay Highland Divide is gorgeous. Creamy and beautifully layered, the Highland Divide is especially notable in this vintage. Time in the glass brings out the wine's gorgeous textural richness and intensity. This is one of the stand outs in the range, especially for the money.Inc. VAT£401.15 -
Vinous (92)
(75% sauvignon musque and 25% sauvignon blanc; bottled the week before my visit): Good bright green-tinged yellow. Expressive, very fresh aromas and flavors of quince, guava, lime and almond, plus notes of underripe pineapple and minerals. Generous, layered and full in the mouth, conveying a captivating floral perfume. Finishes chewy and slightly phenolic, with dusty grapefruit pith and mint nuances. An excellent cooler vintage for this wine.Inc. VAT£243.62 -
(3x75cl) 2019James Suckling (97)
Very subtle aromas of green apple, pear, kumquat and light peach. Medium to full body with a really refined nature, showing similar flavors to the nose, as well as lightly toasted oak and acacia and nut undertones. Honeydew melon and lilac, too. Refined and savory. Delicious complexity. Drink or hold.Inc. VAT£305.82 -
James Suckling (98)
This is really amazing with an exotic dried-fruit character of pineapple and mangoes. Full-bodied, rich and fruity with cream, pie-crust and caramel character. Crazy chardonnay with a little Jura style and some flor undertones. It really does have flor in the barrel when aging. Love. Get it. Drink now.Inc. VAT£226.32 -
James Suckling (98)
A tight and beautiful white with a dense palate of beautiful, ripe lemons and apples. Layered and refined with phenolic tension. Complex yeast and hints of oak and flor. Full body. Great length. 80 per cent flor-growth in barrel. Drink now.Inc. VAT£202.32 -
James Suckling (97)
This is another rock-star chardonnay from here with dried-apple, pear-skin, crushed-stone and peach-pit character. Full body. Creamy texture. Phenolic form and a long, flavorful finish. Drink or hold.Inc. VAT£202.32 -
James Suckling (96)
Cooked apple, lemon curd and light vanilla on the nose, together with stone, mineral and some dried flowers. Medium to full body with a creamy texture and beautiful fruit. Hints of vanilla and pie crust in the aftertaste. Always great quality for the price. Drink or hold.Inc. VAT£166.32 -
James Suckling (96)
This has aromas of ripe apricots, buttercream, baked apples and pastries. Medium-to full-bodied with a creamy, round and almost oily texture. Lovely balance of ripe fruit and toasted-pastry notes with bright acidity. Delicious finish. Fantastic value, as always. Drink now or hold.Inc. VAT£238.32 -
James Suckling (97)
A hint of flint and gunpowder with waxed lemon, oyster shell, mango and salted green apples. Quite a textured, saline expression of chardonnay with tangy flavors and a mineral drive. Full-bodied and reductive with phenolic support. Savory, saline and mouthwatering finish. Love the austerity here. Drink or hold.Inc. VAT£139.92 -
(1x75cl) 2020El Molino Rutherford Chardonnay 2020 epitomises the elegance and precision of Rutherford’s renowned viticulture. Crafted in the heart of California’s acclaimed El Molino Winery, this Chardonnay benefits from meticulously selected Sonoma County vineyards, where the terroir imparts a distinctive minerality and balanced acidity. The grapes undergo gentle hand-harvesting, followed by cold fermentation in French oak barrels, enhancing the wine’s complexity without overpowering its innate character. The 2020 vintage showcases layers of ripe orchard fruits, subtle citrus notes, and a hint of vanilla, seamlessly integrated with a crisp, refreshing finish. El Molino Winery, celebrated for its commitment to sustainable practices and exceptional quality, brings forth a Chardonnay that is both sophisticated and versatile. Ideal for pairing with seafood, poultry, or creamy pasta dishes, El Molino Rutherford Chardonnay 2020 is a testament to fine winemaking and offers an exquisite experience for the discerning connoisseur.
Inc. VAT£123.85 -
(1x75cl) 2016Wine Advocate (95)
I had the luck of tasting two vintages of the Chardonnay from slate/schist soils side by side, including the 2016 Aconcagua Costa Las Pizarras Chardonnay. The juice from the whole clusters decanted for 24 hours, fermented in oak barrels with indigenous yeasts and then aged in barriques for 14 months. It's a little more compressed than the 2017 and has good, vibrant flavors with some floral notes and some gentler flavors, perhaps more similar to the 2014, with the austere schist minerality but with more volume and juicy fruit. There is a little more malolactic in this year. If people have the idea that 2015 is warmer than 2016 and that 2017 is again warmer, the character of these Aconcagua Costa bottlings is the opposite: 2015 and 2017 are fresher, and 2016 is a little warmer. This sometimes happens, as the cooler years are harvested later and the warmer ones see an earlier harvest, so that the wines are exactly the opposite of what you expect. This is great, and its only problem is being tasted next to the 2017, which is otherworldly. 5,000 bottles were filled in May 2017.Inc. VAT£103.19 -
(1x75cl) 2017Wine Advocate (98)
The 2017 Aconcagua Costa Las Pizarras Chardonnay is really fascinating, and it's even sharper, more restrained and with higher acidity than the 2016 that I tasted next to it. Winemaker Francisco Pancho Baettig is really pushing the wine to the limits—harvesting early and with more concentration and structure achieved through lower yields, which provides depth and complexity. The origin is the same as for 2016, and so is the vinification and aging in French barriques for almost 13 months. This is really young and austere, and it took some time in the glass to open up. It has Chablis-like definition, austerity and crispness; it's pure, mineral, long, precise like a laser cut, symmetric and chiseled. Even if it's sharp and citrusy, the palate has more volume and depth, and some nutty notes appear after some time. It's more like a Meursault than a Chablis this time, with great length, and I couldn't help but think of the whites from Jean-Marc Roulot when tasting this. It's a monumental mineral white, with the coastal freshness and the slate tastiness. This is hands down the best vintage of Las Pizarras and the best Chardonnay I've ever tasted from Chile. It's amazing how this wine has developed in only four vintages. As an American friend of mine would say, it's awesome beyond belief! 7,000 bottles were filled in March 2018.Inc. VAT£97.19 -
Wine Advocate (98)
The 2017 Aconcagua Costa Las Pizarras Chardonnay is really fascinating, and it's even sharper, more restrained and with higher acidity than the 2016 that I tasted next to it. Winemaker Francisco Pancho Baettig is really pushing the wine to the limits—harvesting early and with more concentration and structure achieved through lower yields, which provides depth and complexity. The origin is the same as for 2016, and so is the vinification and aging in French barriques for almost 13 months. This is really young and austere, and it took some time in the glass to open up. It has Chablis-like definition, austerity and crispness; it's pure, mineral, long, precise like a laser cut, symmetric and chiseled. Even if it's sharp and citrusy, the palate has more volume and depth, and some nutty notes appear after some time. It's more like a Meursault than a Chablis this time, with great length, and I couldn't help but think of the whites from Jean-Marc Roulot when tasting this. It's a monumental mineral white, with the coastal freshness and the slate tastiness. This is hands down the best vintage of Las Pizarras and the best Chardonnay I've ever tasted from Chile. It's amazing how this wine has developed in only four vintages. As an American friend of mine would say, it's awesome beyond belief! 7,000 bottles were filled in March 2018.Inc. VAT£365.89 -
(1x75cl) 2018James Suckling (99)
I love the aromas of lavender, sandalwood, sliced apples and pears. Some gunpowder and slate undertones. Full-bodied, yet formed and tight with minerality and brightness. Vivid acidity gives this energy and depth. Drinkable, but will age beautifully.Inc. VAT£95.60 -
James Suckling (99)
I love the aromas of lavender, sandalwood, sliced apples and pears. Some gunpowder and slate undertones. Full-bodied, yet formed and tight with minerality and brightness. Vivid acidity gives this energy and depth. Drinkable, but will age beautifully.Inc. VAT£356.29 -
James Suckling (98)
A complex, structured young chardonnay and clearly the best in Chile. It shows lavender, sliced green apples, white peaches, flint and stone. Quince. Sea wood. Cement. Salt. Very complex. Full-bodied, yet very tight with a linear, compressed palate. Energetic acidity. Endless finish. Drink or hold.Inc. VAT£376.69 -
James Suckling (97)
Real depth for a chardonnay, with lots of limey, smoky green fruit, chalky, flinty citrus, stones and oyster shells. Pure, full-bodied and mouthwatering, with laser beams of acidity cutting through the taut, textured palate. Bright, long and pure with a delicious, austere edge. Drink or hold.Inc. VAT£362.66 -
(1x150cl) 2021James Suckling (98)
Punchy minerals cut through the creamy lemon and limey citrus, almost like licking wet stones! Some green apples, too. Steely, with a hint of white flowers and white almond. Very transparent and vertical but this is not a typical full-bodied chardonnay, it is rather linear, tense and electric. Sharpened minerality lingers in a lengthy, mineral finish. An extremely gastronomic and mouthwatering chardonnay. Drink now or hold.Inc. VAT£129.29 -
James Suckling (98)
Punchy minerals cut through the creamy lemon and limey citrus, almost like licking wet stones! Some green apples, too. Steely, with a hint of white flowers and white almond. Very transparent and vertical but this is not a typical full-bodied chardonnay, it is rather linear, tense and electric. Sharpened minerality lingers in a lengthy, mineral finish. An extremely gastronomic and mouthwatering chardonnay. Drink now or hold.Inc. VAT£389.06
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Wine Advocate (93)
The 2022 Chardonnay, vinified without malolactic conversion and matured in stainless steel, opens with inviting aromas of quince, white peaches, toasted meringue and citrus blossom streaked with hints of matchstick and saline. The medium-bodied palate balances ripe, floral fruit with focused acidity, and a touch of textural breadth lengthens the finish. It combines the verve of Chablis with the ripeness of California. It deserves 2-3 years in bottle to unwind.In Bond£105.00 -
Relish the opulence of Donelan Sonoma Coast Chardonnay Genevieves Block 2016, a world-class wine capturing the finest elements of Sonoma Coast terroir. Hailing from the prestigious boutique Californian winery, Donelan Family, this brilliant vintage marries traditional craftsmanship with sustainable practices. The meticulously chosen, handpicked grapes, aged in French oak for 11 months, imbue an alluring aroma and complex flavour palette. Burgeoning with nuances of citrus, ripe apple, pear, and honeyed undertones, the Chardonnay captures the perfect balance of acidity and richness. The aged burgundy wine exhibits a buttery texture and an impeccably long finish, promising a captivating tasting experience. This rare gem from Sonoma Coast epitomises Donelan Family's commitment to crafting exceptional, distinctive wines true to their origins. Indulge in the Donelan Sonoma Coast Chardonnay Genevieves Block 2016 experience highlighting lush, full-bodied structure and unwavering quality – the quintessential choice for the discerning oenophile.
In Bond£923.00 -
Experience the elegance of the Donnachadh Estate Chardonnay 2019, a quintessential expression from the renowned Donnachadh Estate in Tasmania’s pristine vineyard landscapes. Crafted with meticulous care, the Chardonnay grapes were hand-harvested at optimal ripeness, ensuring superior quality. Fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, this vintage preserves the vibrant fruit flavours and delicate acidity characteristic of the region. A subtle ageing process in French oak barrels imparts nuanced notes of vanilla and toasted almond, harmoniously blending with the wine’s natural citrus and stone fruit aromas. The expert viticulturists at Donnachadh Estate uphold sustainable farming practices, reflecting their commitment to excellence and the environment. This 2019 Chardonnay boasts a refined palate with a balanced minerality and a smooth, lingering finish, making it a distinguished choice for fine wine enthusiasts. Whether savoured alone or paired with gourmet cuisine, the Donnachadh Estate Chardonnay 2019 exemplifies sophistication and craftsmanship.
In Bond£70.00 -
Wine Advocate (95)
The 2020 Estate Chardonnay matured for 10 months in about 20% new oak and an additional six months in stainless steel. It has deep scents of baked apples, toast, honey and hay with hints of chaparral and cream. The medium-bodied palate offers surprising concentration, exploding with savory apple flavors. It has a satiny texture, bright balancing acidity and a long, flavorful finish.In Bond£518.00 -
Revel in the sophisticated experience of the Duckhorn Napa Valley Chardonnay 2021. Its creations from Duckhorn Vineyards in Napa, California, have commanded respect among critics and connoisseurs alike since 1976. This multifaceted Chardonnay, meticulously aged in French Oak barrels for ten months, is imbued with opulent flavours and aromatic complexities. A layered palate of ripe apple, spiced pear, and tropical fruit is deftly balanced with minerality and hints of toasty brioche. Its longevity, crisp acidity, and creamy texture present an enchanting dance of depth and gracefulness worthy of its righteous place in the sublime world of fine wine. Possessing a lineage of remarkable excellence and refinement, the Duckhorn Napa Valley Chardonnay 2021 illuminates the procured craft of winemaking. Its radiant finesse and profoundness beckon a discerning palate in search of the perfect embodiment of Napa Valley's winemaking prowess.
In Bond£174.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (96)
The 2021 Chardonnay DuMOL Estate Vineyard is a powerful, phenolic, driving wine. Sage, crushed rocks, lemon peel, mint, white pepper and dried herbs infuse the Estate with tremendous complexity. High-density plantings of Mount Eden clone Chardonnay on this site yield a wine of tremendous distinctiveness and vibrancy.In Bond£486.00 -
(6x75cl) 2022
Jeb Dunnuck (96)
From a site surrounded by dense forest on two sides, the 2022 Chardonnay DuMOL Estate Vineyard is a bright straw hue and has a more vibrant aromatic nose of fresh mint, bright lime, flint, crushed stones, and white peach. Medium to full-bodied, it boasts a remarkably firm structure with a bit of tannin, a chalky texture, and a savory slanting profile, and it’s long and persistent on the finish. It has an assertive but crystalline feel and a crunchy brightness. It demands a bit of time. Drink 2025-2035.In Bond£420.00 -
(6x75cl) 2016
Vinous (93)
The 2016 Chardonnay Isobel Charles Heintz Vineyard has picked up lovely freshness over the last year and shows good focus, if less of the oiliness that is so typical of wine from this highly regarded Sonoma Coast site. There is plenty of character and verve, although the Isobel is decidedly understated and hushed next to the other Chardonnays in this range.In Bond£344.00 -
The Wine Independent (99)
The 2021 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard needs quite a bit of coaxing to unlock notes of ripe yellow apples, grapefruit oil, orange peel, and juicy peaches, leading to wafts of wet slate, shaved ginger, and almond croissant. The medium-bodied palate has super-charged intensity, delivering layer upon layer of citrus, stone fruit, and mineral flavors with a silky texture and laser-precise acidity, finishing with incredible length and so many citrus and mineral sparks. This is phenomenal Chardonnay! These Hyde Vineyard vines were planted in 1986. "Hyde were the first to do custom growing and they do it so well," commented DuMOL's winemaker, Andy Smith. "The shoot growth in 2021 was very low and the yields were down from a typical 21 barrels to 17 barrels. But I believe this is the best quality is the best they've ever had from here." I agree. For number crunchers, the pH is 3.38, and ABV is 13.7%.In Bond£479.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (98)
The upper third of the Hyde Vineyard goes into this bottling and the lower part goes into the HHS. The nose of the 2022 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard is spectacular, with notes of honeycomb, fresh pear, white flowers, and honeyed lemon. The palate offers incredible texture and vibrant fresh acidity, with an elegant feel and a long, long finish. A mouthwatering white, it’s going to be worth laying down and checking in on in a few years. Drink 2026-2038. 22 barrels produced.In Bond£445.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (98)
One of my favorites in the lineup was the 2016 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard, which comes from 23-year-old vines planted in one of the reference point vineyards in Carneros. Lemon, apricot, spice, flower oils, and tangerine skin are just some of the nuances here, and it builds with time in the glass. Deep, awesomely concentrated, and structured, yet still seamless and weightless, give it a year or two, count yourself lucky, and enjoy bottles over the coming 10-15 years.In Bond£324.00 -
(6x75cl) 2021
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (92-94)
The 2021 Chardonnay Highland Divide is gorgeous. Creamy and beautifully layered, the Highland Divide is especially notable in this vintage. Time in the glass brings out the wine's gorgeous textural richness and intensity. This is one of the stand outs in the range, especially for the money.In Bond£315.00 -
Vinous (92)
(75% sauvignon musque and 25% sauvignon blanc; bottled the week before my visit): Good bright green-tinged yellow. Expressive, very fresh aromas and flavors of quince, guava, lime and almond, plus notes of underripe pineapple and minerals. Generous, layered and full in the mouth, conveying a captivating floral perfume. Finishes chewy and slightly phenolic, with dusty grapefruit pith and mint nuances. An excellent cooler vintage for this wine.In Bond£195.00 -
(3x75cl) 2019
James Suckling (97)
Very subtle aromas of green apple, pear, kumquat and light peach. Medium to full body with a really refined nature, showing similar flavors to the nose, as well as lightly toasted oak and acacia and nut undertones. Honeydew melon and lilac, too. Refined and savory. Delicious complexity. Drink or hold.In Bond£245.00 -
James Suckling (98)
This is really amazing with an exotic dried-fruit character of pineapple and mangoes. Full-bodied, rich and fruity with cream, pie-crust and caramel character. Crazy chardonnay with a little Jura style and some flor undertones. It really does have flor in the barrel when aging. Love. Get it. Drink now.In Bond£170.00 -
James Suckling (98)
A tight and beautiful white with a dense palate of beautiful, ripe lemons and apples. Layered and refined with phenolic tension. Complex yeast and hints of oak and flor. Full body. Great length. 80 per cent flor-growth in barrel. Drink now.In Bond£150.00 -
James Suckling (97)
This is another rock-star chardonnay from here with dried-apple, pear-skin, crushed-stone and peach-pit character. Full body. Creamy texture. Phenolic form and a long, flavorful finish. Drink or hold.In Bond£150.00 -
James Suckling (96)
Cooked apple, lemon curd and light vanilla on the nose, together with stone, mineral and some dried flowers. Medium to full body with a creamy texture and beautiful fruit. Hints of vanilla and pie crust in the aftertaste. Always great quality for the price. Drink or hold.In Bond£120.00 -
James Suckling (96)
This has aromas of ripe apricots, buttercream, baked apples and pastries. Medium-to full-bodied with a creamy, round and almost oily texture. Lovely balance of ripe fruit and toasted-pastry notes with bright acidity. Delicious finish. Fantastic value, as always. Drink now or hold.In Bond£180.00 -
James Suckling (97)
A hint of flint and gunpowder with waxed lemon, oyster shell, mango and salted green apples. Quite a textured, saline expression of chardonnay with tangy flavors and a mineral drive. Full-bodied and reductive with phenolic support. Savory, saline and mouthwatering finish. Love the austerity here. Drink or hold.In Bond£98.00 -
(1x75cl) 2020
El Molino Rutherford Chardonnay 2020 epitomises the elegance and precision of Rutherford’s renowned viticulture. Crafted in the heart of California’s acclaimed El Molino Winery, this Chardonnay benefits from meticulously selected Sonoma County vineyards, where the terroir imparts a distinctive minerality and balanced acidity. The grapes undergo gentle hand-harvesting, followed by cold fermentation in French oak barrels, enhancing the wine’s complexity without overpowering its innate character. The 2020 vintage showcases layers of ripe orchard fruits, subtle citrus notes, and a hint of vanilla, seamlessly integrated with a crisp, refreshing finish. El Molino Winery, celebrated for its commitment to sustainable practices and exceptional quality, brings forth a Chardonnay that is both sophisticated and versatile. Ideal for pairing with seafood, poultry, or creamy pasta dishes, El Molino Rutherford Chardonnay 2020 is a testament to fine winemaking and offers an exquisite experience for the discerning connoisseur.
In Bond£100.00 -
(1x75cl) 2016
Wine Advocate (95)
I had the luck of tasting two vintages of the Chardonnay from slate/schist soils side by side, including the 2016 Aconcagua Costa Las Pizarras Chardonnay. The juice from the whole clusters decanted for 24 hours, fermented in oak barrels with indigenous yeasts and then aged in barriques for 14 months. It's a little more compressed than the 2017 and has good, vibrant flavors with some floral notes and some gentler flavors, perhaps more similar to the 2014, with the austere schist minerality but with more volume and juicy fruit. There is a little more malolactic in this year. If people have the idea that 2015 is warmer than 2016 and that 2017 is again warmer, the character of these Aconcagua Costa bottlings is the opposite: 2015 and 2017 are fresher, and 2016 is a little warmer. This sometimes happens, as the cooler years are harvested later and the warmer ones see an earlier harvest, so that the wines are exactly the opposite of what you expect. This is great, and its only problem is being tasted next to the 2017, which is otherworldly. 5,000 bottles were filled in May 2017.In Bond£83.00 -
(1x75cl) 2017
Wine Advocate (98)
The 2017 Aconcagua Costa Las Pizarras Chardonnay is really fascinating, and it's even sharper, more restrained and with higher acidity than the 2016 that I tasted next to it. Winemaker Francisco Pancho Baettig is really pushing the wine to the limits—harvesting early and with more concentration and structure achieved through lower yields, which provides depth and complexity. The origin is the same as for 2016, and so is the vinification and aging in French barriques for almost 13 months. This is really young and austere, and it took some time in the glass to open up. It has Chablis-like definition, austerity and crispness; it's pure, mineral, long, precise like a laser cut, symmetric and chiseled. Even if it's sharp and citrusy, the palate has more volume and depth, and some nutty notes appear after some time. It's more like a Meursault than a Chablis this time, with great length, and I couldn't help but think of the whites from Jean-Marc Roulot when tasting this. It's a monumental mineral white, with the coastal freshness and the slate tastiness. This is hands down the best vintage of Las Pizarras and the best Chardonnay I've ever tasted from Chile. It's amazing how this wine has developed in only four vintages. As an American friend of mine would say, it's awesome beyond belief! 7,000 bottles were filled in March 2018.In Bond£78.00 -
Wine Advocate (98)
The 2017 Aconcagua Costa Las Pizarras Chardonnay is really fascinating, and it's even sharper, more restrained and with higher acidity than the 2016 that I tasted next to it. Winemaker Francisco Pancho Baettig is really pushing the wine to the limits—harvesting early and with more concentration and structure achieved through lower yields, which provides depth and complexity. The origin is the same as for 2016, and so is the vinification and aging in French barriques for almost 13 months. This is really young and austere, and it took some time in the glass to open up. It has Chablis-like definition, austerity and crispness; it's pure, mineral, long, precise like a laser cut, symmetric and chiseled. Even if it's sharp and citrusy, the palate has more volume and depth, and some nutty notes appear after some time. It's more like a Meursault than a Chablis this time, with great length, and I couldn't help but think of the whites from Jean-Marc Roulot when tasting this. It's a monumental mineral white, with the coastal freshness and the slate tastiness. This is hands down the best vintage of Las Pizarras and the best Chardonnay I've ever tasted from Chile. It's amazing how this wine has developed in only four vintages. As an American friend of mine would say, it's awesome beyond belief! 7,000 bottles were filled in March 2018.In Bond£287.00 -
(1x75cl) 2018
James Suckling (99)
I love the aromas of lavender, sandalwood, sliced apples and pears. Some gunpowder and slate undertones. Full-bodied, yet formed and tight with minerality and brightness. Vivid acidity gives this energy and depth. Drinkable, but will age beautifully.In Bond£77.00 -
James Suckling (99)
I love the aromas of lavender, sandalwood, sliced apples and pears. Some gunpowder and slate undertones. Full-bodied, yet formed and tight with minerality and brightness. Vivid acidity gives this energy and depth. Drinkable, but will age beautifully.In Bond£279.00 -
James Suckling (98)
A complex, structured young chardonnay and clearly the best in Chile. It shows lavender, sliced green apples, white peaches, flint and stone. Quince. Sea wood. Cement. Salt. Very complex. Full-bodied, yet very tight with a linear, compressed palate. Energetic acidity. Endless finish. Drink or hold.In Bond£296.00 -
James Suckling (97)
Real depth for a chardonnay, with lots of limey, smoky green fruit, chalky, flinty citrus, stones and oyster shells. Pure, full-bodied and mouthwatering, with laser beams of acidity cutting through the taut, textured palate. Bright, long and pure with a delicious, austere edge. Drink or hold.In Bond£285.00 -
(1x150cl) 2021
James Suckling (98)
Punchy minerals cut through the creamy lemon and limey citrus, almost like licking wet stones! Some green apples, too. Steely, with a hint of white flowers and white almond. Very transparent and vertical but this is not a typical full-bodied chardonnay, it is rather linear, tense and electric. Sharpened minerality lingers in a lengthy, mineral finish. An extremely gastronomic and mouthwatering chardonnay. Drink now or hold.In Bond£102.00 -
James Suckling (98)
Punchy minerals cut through the creamy lemon and limey citrus, almost like licking wet stones! Some green apples, too. Steely, with a hint of white flowers and white almond. Very transparent and vertical but this is not a typical full-bodied chardonnay, it is rather linear, tense and electric. Sharpened minerality lingers in a lengthy, mineral finish. An extremely gastronomic and mouthwatering chardonnay. Drink now or hold.In Bond£307.00
