Ata Rangi Masters Chardonnay 2024

96 POINTS - The Real Review "Restrained but complex wine with unfolding layers of orchid, white pepper, smoke, lemon zest, savoury herbs and clove on the nose. The palate, though backward and very young, bursts with taut flavours of grilled citrus, white peach and celery salt, carried by a sherbet-like acidity and sleek phenolics with just enough wood on the back to notice. Very driven and concentrated, this is linear and compact presently, the measured fruit flavours hiding a core of flinty minerality and firm structure which will allow this powerful, elegant chardonnay to develop more savoury complexity and weight over the long term." The nose combines notes of toasted fennel seeds, white cardamon, lemon pith and fresh biscuit. On the palate flavours of lemon grass, orange blossom and almond are carried by bright clear acidity. The acidity is held in place by fruit weight and fine phenolics. The palate finishes with a long delicious almost salty character which is a hallmark of this site. A wonderful combination of power, precision and elegance.