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91POINTS
16¾/20
Man O' War Valhalla Chardonnay 2013
Waiheke Island, Auckland, North Island, New ZealandValhalla signifies the heavens in Norse mythology, and the best chardonnay barrels of the vintage for Waiheke Island's Man O' War Vineyards. Expressively ripe and powerful, this bold, full white takes the Island's potent fruit and charges it with whole bunch pressing, wild fermentation in 500 litre acacia and oak puncheons and a year on the lees in both wood and tank. A piercing vein of acidity may reflect the steep hillsides and volcanic soils that made up this wine. Smoked stone, flint and eraser pervade a generous palate of salted almonds, lush pear and lemon peel. Bitter citrus lingers on the lengthy finish. Acid keeps this tightly wound and prickly, while the toasty oak density anchors it. Well integrated and certainly not shy; pair with dishes that can stand up to it or cellar for a few years.Tasted: 08 June 2016Tasted by: Treve RingPrices:| NZ | $35.00 | 750ml | NZ |
