The 2022 Man O’ War Valhalla Chardonnay is a powerful, complex Chardonnay from Waiheke Island, New Zealand, sourced from several steep, dry-farmed vineyard sites. The nose is intensely savoury, showing ripe stone fruit alongside brioche, cashew and hazelnut, with subtle green smoke and coastal mineral notes adding complexity.
On the palate, it is rich and full-bodied yet balanced by vibrant acidity, with ripe peach and stone fruit complemented by roasted nuts and a distinctive salted, savoury finish. The hand-harvested fruit underwent wild fermentation on full solids in French oak puncheons, with 20% new oak, followed by maturation on gross lees without malolactic fermentation or lees stirring.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is an excellent choice for Chardonnay drinkers who enjoy powerful, savoury whites with ripe fruit, fresh acidity and well-integrated oak. Enjoy now or cellar for further development; Man O’ War indicates the 2022 can develop for around a decade. Ideal with roast chicken, grilled lobster, scallops, pork, creamy seafood dishes or mushroom dishes.
