In 2013, Tony Bish founded the only winery in New Zealand that specialises in Chardonnay. The Burgundy grape has been a career-long focus for the self-proclaimed “Chardonnista”. Although the brilliant terroir of Hawkes Bay is markedly different from Chardonnay’s home province, Tony Bish Wines have succeeded in creating a beautiful, unique range of wines based around the white varietal.
The winery creates 6 wines in total, and all are special in different ways. The Heartwood Chardonnay was aged for 11 months in French oak barriques and has plenty of potential for ageing further in the bottle.
In the glass, it is bright golden-yellow, with hints of green. Mouth-watering aromas of nectarine, pineapple, citrus and peach combine with earthy, warming spice components, such as ginger, cedar and oak. On the palate, it is silky and slightly chalky, with lively yellow fruits and classic Chardonnay notes of nut and brioche. An energetic current of acidity underpins the experience, leading you towards a long, complex finish. The Heartwood Chardonnay is versatile enough to pair with a wide variety of food but will go particularly well with some chicken, pork, or fish.