Smith&Sheth Cru Heretaunga Chardonnay 2022

Category:
 
White Wines
Sub-Category:  
 
White Wines
Producer:
 
Smith&Sheth
Label Name:
 
Cru Heretaunga Chardonnay
Vintage:
 
2022
Country:
 
New Zealand
Region:
 
Heretaunga, Hawke's Bay
Volume:
 
750ml
ABV:
 
13.2%
Grape(s):
 
100% Chardonnay
Acidity:
 
4
Sweetness:
 
1
Body:
 
4
Length:
 
4
Aroma Intensity:
 
4
Best Temperature:
 
12-14°C

Awards/Ratings
Cameron Douglas MS 94 (2024); Wine Enthusiast 93 (2022); Vinous 91 (2023); Jancis Robinson 17/20 (2022). Retailers list scores in the low‑to‑mid 90s

Tasting Note
Bright lemon and grapefruit peel with white stonefruit and nectarine, saline oyster‑shell minerality, toasted brioche, cashew and subtle French oak spice. Creamy texture, vibrant acidity and a long, savory finish.

Food Pairing
Western: oysters, shellfish risotto, grilled white fish, roast chicken, creamy pasta, aged Brie. Asian: miso‑glazed cod, tempura prawns, sushi (scallop/uni), lightly spiced Thai or Vietnamese seafood dishes.

Production Method
Whole‑cluster pressed; ambient (indigenous) yeast fermentation in French oak barriques and puncheons (≈27–30% new); 100% malolactic; 9–11 months oak ageing with gentle bâtonnage; minimal filtration.

Vineyard Info
Smith & Sheth (founded 2014 by Steve Smith MW and Brian Sheth) is a Hawke's Bay négociant sourcing hand‑selected fruit from top Heretaunga vineyards to produce terroir-driven, small-batch wines.