The 2008 Chardonnay provides a moderate to intense, pleasantly wild and funky nose with notes of meal, pineapple, warm grapefruit, struck match, baking bread and nuts. The medium bodied palate is toasty and well textured with just enough viscosity, crisp acid and a long toasty finish. Approachable now, it should drink best 2011 to 2015+. Importer: The Country Vintner; www.countryvintner.com.au

Bigger, rounder and more fleshed out in style. Plenty of ripe, tropical fruit on show, hints of watermelon and candied edges. Possibly not one for those modernists who prefer a more restrained take on Chardonnay. 13.5% abv. Richards Walford

The 2007 Chardonnay has a very well defined on the nose. Nice sense of reserve with subtle hazelnut and almond touches coming through. Medium-bodied on the palate, vibrant acidity, refined with touches of pineapple and dried mango towards the finish. Excellent. The wines from this outstanding producer were tasted blind at a regional South Island tasting, although time restraints meant that one or two were unable to be appraised.Importer: Epic Wines, Santa Cruz, CA; tel. (831) 689-9080