Craggy Range Kidnappers Vineyard Chardonnay 2023

Winery Background and History

Craggy Range is a family-owned winery in New Zealand, established in 1998 by the Peabody family. The winery is renowned for its commitment to producing single-vineyard wines that express the unique characteristics of their specific terroirs. The Kidnappers Vineyard, located near Cape Kidnappers in Hawke’s Bay, benefits from a cool coastal climate, ideal for cultivating Chardonnay grapes with vibrant acidity and minerality.

Producer and Winemaker

The winemaking team at Craggy Range is dedicated to crafting wines that reflect the purity and complexity of their vineyard sites. Their approach combines traditional techniques with modern innovation to produce wines of exceptional quality.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The Kidnappers Vineyard is situated on the Hawke’s Bay coastline, where spring and autumn are warm and sunny, and the summer is tempered by cooling sea breezes. The shallow, warm clay loam soils, combined with careful selection of Chardonnay clones, allow for the development of very pure, cool flavors in the grapes. This coastal environment contributes to the wine’s distinctive freshness and minerality.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Chardonnay

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested and whole-bunch pressed before undergoing fermentation in stainless steel tanks, closed oak tanks, and new French oak puncheons. The wine is matured on the lees in oak barrels before bottling. This traditional approach enhances the wine’s texture and complexity while preserving its fresh and fruity character. 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

The specific alcohol content for the 2023 vintage is not provided in the available sources.

Tasting Notes

Aromas of fleshy peaches and crisp pears with fresh citrus notes of lemon and mandarin, lay amongst hints of blossom, thistle, and subtle oak sweetness. These flavors follow through to the palate, which is finely textured with a refreshing, long, and salivating finish.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Chardonnay is a delicious companion to a variety of shellfish dishes. Its bright acidity and mineral notes complement oysters, grilled prawns, and seared scallops. It also pairs well with light poultry dishes and creamy pasta.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and crispness, serve the Kidnappers Vineyard Chardonnay well-chilled at around 10-12°C (50-54°F) in medium-sized white wine glasses. This temperature accentuates the wine’s freshness and allows its nuanced aromas to shine. It’s recommended to open the bottle shortly before serving to preserve its delicate aromatics.

Storage and Aging Potential

While this Chardonnay is enjoyable upon release, displaying vibrant fruit flavors and crisp acidity, it also has the potential to develop additional complexity with short-term cellaring. When stored properly in a cool, dark environment with stable temperatures, it can be enjoyed over the next 3 to 5 years, during which it may develop richer textures and more integrated flavors.