Mills Reef Reserve Chardonnay Varietal/Style: Chardonnay Origin: Hawkes Bay, New Zealand Vintage: 1998 Winemaker: Paddy Preston Rating: 14/20 Retail Price: $16

Tasting Notes: The Mills Reef Reserve Chardonnay, barrel-fermented and aged in French oak, is a classic example of a Hawkes Bay region Chardonnay. Concentrated citrus and tropical fruit flavors give a sense of the wine’s exotic origins. Fresh and well-balanced, this Chard lingers on the palate with a hint of toasty oak. As is the case with many New Zealand imports, we think this relatively undiscovered Chardonnay is a good value for the money. (Date tasted: 03/03/200)

Profile: At Mills Reef, winemaking is a family affair. Hobby winemaker, Paddy Preston, created the winery with his son, Tim, in 1989, looking to help New Zealand wines earn their place on the world market. Joined by family members Warren and Melissa, the Prestons oversee the premium winemaking facility as well as a restaurant. In 1998, Mills Reef began exporting their flagship Sauvignon Blanc to the United States. This year, we are lucky enough to also have their well-priced Chardonnay and their Pinot Noir available for purchase in the U.S.

Address
Moffat Rd.
City: Bethlehem, New Zealand
Phone: (+64) 7 576-8800 or 0-800-64-55-77
Web site: www.millsreef.com
E-mail: winemaker@millsreef.com

other wines