Rose & Rose Chardonnay 2024, Marlborough

In 1978 the Rose family were the first to grow grapes in what is now known as the Golden Mile of Marlborough’s Wairau Valley. They have continued to grow their land holdings from the first vineyard, focusing on the northern side of the Wairau Valley. The proximity of the 14 estate vineyards to the winery means the fruit is processed within an hour of being picked, maximising flavour concentration and freshness and quality. Situated at the top of New Zealand’s South Island, with Cook Strait to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the east, Marlborough experiences a maritime climate. This provides a cooling influence which, coupled with some of the highest sunshine hours in the country, creates the perfect environment for grape growing. After gentle whole-bunch pressing 40% of the juice was fermented in a mix of new and old French oak barriques and 60% in stainless steel. The stainless steel portion of the blend was fermented with cultured yeasts and underwent partial malolactic fermentation, while the barrel portion underwent wild alcoholic fermentation and full natural malolactic fermentation. This wine is packed full of pure fruit aromas like nectarine and citrus that beautifully complement roast chicken or pasta in a creamy sauce.