Chardonnay

A Chardonnay from Marlborough that shows more depth than the region would suggest – matured in wooden barrels, with a clear structure and real aging potential.

Nautilus Estate is one of the established wineries in Marlborough, New Zealand's most famous wine region in the north of the South Island. While the region is primarily known for Sauvignon Blanc, Nautilus has been demonstrating for years that Chardonnay can also thrive here – provided that meticulous work is done in the cellar.

The 2023 vintage opens with ripe nectarines, brioche, and beeswax, accompanied by roasted almonds and a subtle flinty minerality in the background. On the palate, peach and honeydew melon emerge, along with elderflower and a nutty complexity that hints at barrel aging. The acidity is crisp and well-integrated, the body dense without feeling heavy, and the finish is long and focused. With further aging, the wine gains in creamy richness.

Serving temperature: 10–12 °C. Drinking window: now until 2028.
Goes well with grilled lobster, chicken breast fillet in cream sauce, scallops or a mature Brie de Meaux.