2024 Beach House Levels Vineyard Chardonnay

"Our Levels Chardonnay was 100% sourced from the Gunn family vineyard on Ohiti Road, where they grow the highly sought-after 548 clone of Chardonnay. The grapes were hand-picked in immaculate condition on the 7th and 8th of March. Only the initial “free run” portion of the juice was allocated for our super premium ‘Levels’ Chardonnay, where it was placed into fine French oak (16 % new) to undergo primary and secondary “malo-lactic” fermentation. A mix of ‘Wild’ and ‘Inoculated’ yeast was used to ferment the juice to help create a more complex and interesting wine. We are elated at what we’ve managed to encapsulate into the bottle this year. A real powerhouse of a Chardonnay with all the elements we love; punchy stone fruit, brioche notes from the malolactic fermentation, fine French oak bringing structure and spice. Vintage 2024 was a stunner across the board and what better way to express this great vintage than this fine example of Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay at its absolute peak."

"An ultra-textural, seriously rich, fruit-forward chardonnay showing cashew and marzipan layers, and enchanting oak curving around a core of creamy, honeyed complexity. Crafted by Chris Harrison, it has incredible energy and length and it’s a joy to drink."

"Gorgeously complex and enticing, the bouquet shows golden peach, fig, vanilla and cedar characters with a hint of lemon zest. The palate delivers terrific weight and persistency, wonderfully complemented by fleshy texture and well-integrated acidity, finishing long and delectable. From the Ohiti district. At its best: now to 2028."