93

2008 Kumeu River Coddington Chardonnay, Auckland

( £19.92, 13%, Tanners )

If you’re not aware of the remarkable Chardonnays that Michael Brajkovich is producing north of Auckland, you’re missing out on some of the New World’s best white wines. This is very Burgundian indeed with fresh, mineral, butter and citrus fruit flavours, delicate oak and a long, harmonious finish. Great now but will age for at least another five years. 

Similar Wines: £10-£20, 91-95, New Zealand, White, Chardonnay
91

2008 AA Badenhorst Family White, Swartland

( £24, 14.5%, Swig )

After an impressive tenure at Rustenburg, Adi Badenhorst is doing some really exciting things at his new project in the Swartland. This fruit salad white blend of mostly Chenin Blanc with Roussanne, Grenache Blanc, Viognier, Verdelho, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc is a stunner. There’s a sheen of French oak, but what distinguishes the wine is its fruit depth and complexity: perfumed and blossom-scented with notes of honey, ginger spice, fresh apples, peach and a crunchy, refreshing finish. A producer to watch, given his track record.

BuySimilar Wines: £20-£30, 91-95, South Africa, White, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Other Whites, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier

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