Citrus, jasmine, and white peaches are distinctly present in the aroma, with undertones of flint and spices. Focused and streamlined on the palate, it features notes of lemon curd and brioche, concentrated fruit, and a natural acidity that provides freshness. Partial malolactic fermentation and barrel aging contribute to the wine’s depth, length, and added complexity.
The grapes primarily come from the Escarpment vineyard on Te Muna Road in Martinborough. A Chardonnay with distinction and complexity, showcasing striking minerality and a characteristic expression that reflects the region’s terroir and winemaking philosophy. This is a wine of elegance and restraint, focus, and persistence. It will develop further in the bottle over the next 5-7 years.
Pair with soft, creamy cheeses, fish, or rich chicken dishes. Serving temperature: 12-13°C.
A cool, wet summer delayed the Chardonnay harvest until April. Although the weather posed challenges, Chardonnay was one of the standout varieties of the vintage. It exhibits lovely restraint alongside drive and texture, with extended hang time allowing for greater concentration. The fruit is 100% sourced from the Martinborough region.
Fermented in French oak puncheons using indigenous wild yeast to enhance texture and complexity. After fermentation, the wine was aged in barrels—24% of which were new—for 11 months.
About Escarpment
Escarpment Winery is dedicated to crafting wines with perfect balance and exquisite complexity, reflecting the unique terroir of this special part of Aotearoa.
History
An “escarpment” is defined as “a long, steep slope, typically at the edge of a plateau,” mirroring the distinctive landscape of Martinborough, where the winery is located. With optimal sun exposure in Wairarapa and ancient alluvial soils, this is a unique terroir with a natural balance, ideal for growing Pinot Noir.
Since 1998, Escarpment Winery has produced wines in Martinborough from Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, and Pinot Gris. The winery is a collaboration between winemaker Tim Bourne and viticulturist Rowan Hoskins, both deeply focused on terroir and nature in their craft. Martinborough’s vineyards, covered in alluvial gravel, contribute to wines with remarkable structure, complexity, and fruit expression.
New Zealanders have great respect for the land and its history. From the winery, there is a view of the Aorangi Ranges, three hills made famous by Kupe, a great Polynesian explorer who, according to Māori legend, discovered New Zealand. Kupe left his three canoes, Nga Waka, on top of the hills, giving rise to the district’s well-known landmark, Nga Waka-o-Kupe—three flat-topped hills that resemble upturned canoes.
Te Muna Road, Martinborough, translates to “secret” or “special place” in Māori, reflecting Escarpment’s distinctive terroir. Much like the great wines of Burgundy, Escarpment names its finest Pinot Noir wines after the vineyards where the grapes are grown. Single Vineyard Kupe, Pahi, Te Rehua, and Kiwa embody the estate’s philosophy of elegance and complexity.
