Iona Chardonnay 2016

The Chardonnay is produced from 2 north-facing vineyards on the western boundary of the farm, both planted in 2003. The 2009 plantings are not currently producing but bring the total of Chardonnay up to 3.44 hectares on Iona. The wines are rich and intense, with small berries from poor set often responsible for the intensity of the wines.

Iona is better known for its Sauvignon Blanc, but its Chardonnay is every bit as good. This naturally fermented white comes from warmer, north-facing slopes but isn’t over-ripe or heavy. Apple and green fig flavours segue into a deftly oaked, toasty, lime zesty finish with some creamy malolactic notes.