For the last 20 years, New Zealand has bathed in a sea of green, tropical wines as Sauvignon Blanc has become the dominate grape variety in the country. While these wines, from the likes of Cloudy Bay and Greywacke, are loved the world over, Jancis Robinson MW has 'long argued that New Zealand makes even better Chardonnay'.

There is no better example of this than New Zealand's highest-scoring Chardonnay, the 'effortless' (Vinous) Villa Maria Keltern Chardonnay 2019 that is released today. Scoring 98 points from Bob Campbell MW and 96 points from Vinous's Rebecca Gibb MW, this is a wine 'never seeming to have to try too hard to satisfy' (VN) but sets the benchmark for single-vineyard Chardonnay in New Zealand.

2019 was an exceptional vintage in Hawke's Bay and this newest rendition of the Keltern from New Zealand's most awarded winery has the quality to rival the great Chardonnays of the world, but at only £22.50 per bottle IB, it costs less than most Burgundy Villages.

A 'rich and highly concentrated' (BC) Chardonnay, but nevertheless made in a 'savory, seamless style' (VN), it gives off beautiful notes of peach, nectarine, apple, fresh baguette and nutty, oak flavours. This expansive fruit is 'perfectly balanced by ripe acidity' (BC), providing line and purpose from the entry to the extremely lengthy and textural finish. While it is a truly delicious wine now, Campbell believes that it will 'get even better with bottle age'.

Released at only £135 per case IB, the Villa Maria Keltern Chardonnay 2019 is not just one of the best Chardonnays in New Zealand but one of the best in the world. Only in New Zealand can you find a wine of this quality for such exceptional value.