One of New Zealand's oldest wineries has released three new wines made from the grape that first put it on the map. That grape is Chardonnay and the winery is Neudorf Vineyards, tucked in a sunny enclave in the Upper Moutere hills of Nelson. 

"It's the first time that Neudorf Vineyards has released these Chardonnays at the same time, marking a significant milestone in the winery's evolution," says Rosie Finn, who is the second generation family member of the winery's founders.

She is keen to push the sustainability message behind the wines and the winery. And there are certainly plenty of credentials to underpin this message. The winery is solar powered. The wines are certified organic with BioGro, made from grapes grown without systemic chemicals and all hand picked grapes, fermented with wild yeasts and bottled unfined, which means that no animal products (egg whites, for example) were used in their production. This is a refreshing reminder that there are wine producers dedicated to protecting the land and the grapes they grow on it.

Here are my reviews of Neudorf Vineyard's trio of new 2023 Chardonnays 

19/20

2023 Neudorf Rosie’s Block Amphora Chardonnay RRP $55

Here's a wine that is unshackled by the traditional expectations of Chardonnay, made with wild yeast fermentation in amphora leading to a combination of lively energy in its vibrant, lively acidity and depth of citrusy purity. Flavours of pure lemon and grapefruit combine with a succulent nectarine tangy finish. A great wine now and has longevity on its side, if willpower allows. Love this style and the energy in each sip. 

17.5/20

2023 Neudorf Rosie’s Block Moutere Chardonnay RRP $55

Rosie Finn describes this wine as a fashion statement and it is a big, bold wine with pronounced acidity and malolactic creamy qualities which suggest everything present in the wine - a full body, dry rich flavours and creamy texture. High quality Chardonnay in New Zealand goes from one strength to the next and this puts the South Island's great white wine foot forward.

18.5/20

2023 Neudorf Home Block Moutere Chardonnay RRP $95

Commanding Chardonnay with nuances of caramel, cream and a hint of peach beautifully balanced by bright fresh acidity that lends a succulence with grapefruit flavours kicking in mid palate and stretching the flavours out to a long finish.

This is the great flagship white from Neudorf and every sip shows why the South Island of New Zealand has outstanding potential with Chardonnay.