The Shout Magazine (New Zealand)

Introducing the Hawke’s Bay Annual Chardonnay Collection Vintage 2022

Hawke’s Bay Winegrowers has announced the 12 Hawke’s Bay Chardonnays selected by Cameron Douglas MS, for the fourth year of the Hawke’s Bay Annual Chardonnay Collection.

After careful consideration, from a pool of 42 submissions, these wines represent the pinnacle of the 2022 vintage, embodying the distinctive characteristics that define Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay.

Each bottle tells a story of dedication, innovation, and a deep-rooted passion for winemaking excellence, says Hawke’s Bay Winegrowers.

The selected wines include:

Askerne Chardonnay 2022
Askerne Reserve Chardonnay 2022
Bilancia Kaikora Vineyard Chardonnay 2022
Church Road Grand Reserve Chardonnay 2022
Craggy Range Les Beaux Cailloux 2022
Craggy Range Kidnappers Vineyard Chardonnay 2022
Elephant Hill Sea Chardonnay 2022
Paritua “Willow” Chardonnay 2022
Smith & Sheth CRU Heretaunga Chardonnay 2022
Squawking Magpie Counting Crows Chardonnay 2022
Squawking Magpie Terraces & Gravels Chardonnay 2022
Tony Bish Skeetfield Chardonnay 2022

“I reaffirm my statement from this time last year after sampling the Hawke’s Bay Annual Chardonnay Collection, asserting that these wines rival many I’ve encountered from international producers, including those from Burgundy,” says Cameron Douglas MS.

“As a wine taster and connoisseur of all things beverage-related, Chardonnay remains one of the most fascinating and complex varieties that excites me.

“This year’s challenge once again showcased the diversity of styles present in Hawke’s Bay and perfectly encapsulated the essence of the 2022 vintage.”

The 2022 Collection showcases outstanding quality, presenting a diverse range of styles that reflect the unique terroir of various subregions within Hawke’s Bay, and attests to the remarkable expertise and skill of the collection’s winemakers.

Chardonnay continues to hold a significant position as a key regional varietal for Hawke’s Bay, boasting an internationally recognised reputation for quality.

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