The Landing Chardonnay 2024, Bay of Islands. RRP from $55.00  

If you’re heading to the Bay of Islands this summer, then I can highly recommend a day visit to The Landing. The land’s suitability for viticulture was long ago identified by the missionary Reverend Samuel Marsden. He established the first permanent European settlement in New Zealand, near where our vineyard now sits.    

The Landing takes its name from its history as a place where early Polynesian and European immigrants to Aotearoa New Zealand made landfall and built new lives in a new country. And as the home of the first community where European missionaries and indigenous Māori people lived together in New Zealand  

The wine: A delicious wine with the stamp of site written throughout the aromas and flavours; beginning with a clay and stone mineral idea then salty seaside suggestions laced with fresh apple and grapefruit, then ripe yellow stone fruits. The layer of wood spice and lees adds complexity and texture accentuated by the acid line. Weight and mouthfeel, tautness and freshness are excellent. A wine that can be enjoyed from day of purchase or cellared for at least a year.  

The season: The 2025 vintage delivered one of the most balanced and high-quality growing seasons in recent years. A warm, settled spring ensured even flowering and excellent fruit set. Moderate rainfall in December and January maintained healthy canopies, while dry, sunny weather from February through March enabled optimal ripening.   

The food match: Homemade fettuccini ribbons in a light cream sauce with toasted pine nuts, button mushrooms and pieces of roasted salmon. 

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