The 2016 Greywacke Archive Chardonnay is a beautifully matured Marlborough Chardonnay from New Zealand, crafted by renowned winemaker Kevin Judd. Sourced primarily from low-yielding Mendoza Clone vineyards in Brancott Valley and Fairhall, the fruit was hand-picked, whole-bunch pressed and fermented with indigenous yeasts in French oak barriques (20% new). The wine spent 18 months on lees, with full malolactic fermentation, before extended bottle ageing as an Archive Release. The nose is richly layered with aromas of pink grapefruit, burnt orange and white nectarine, complemented by smoked almonds, hazelnut meringue, freshly cut hay and flinty mineral notes.
On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with a creamy, textural mouthfeel balanced by vibrant acidity and remarkable precision. Flavours of ripe stone fruit, citrus and roasted nuts are interwoven with savoury lees complexity and a distinctive flinty minerality, finishing long, dry and beautifully focused. Extended maturation in both barrel and bottle has added depth and harmony while preserving the wine's freshness and elegant structure.
Ben's Recommendation: At Wine More Cellars, this is an outstanding choice for lovers of mature, Burgundian-inspired Chardonnay with exceptional complexity and finesse. Pair it with roast chicken, grilled lobster, seared scallops or creamy mushroom risotto. Enjoy now to appreciate its beautifully developed character, or cellar for another 3–5 years if well stored.
