Villa Maria Single Vineyard McDiarmid Hill Chardonnay – Gimblett Gravels – A benchmark Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay, this single-vineyard release from McDiarmid Hill is elegant yet powerful. Aromas of white peach, nectarine and citrus blossom are seamlessly layered with flinty minerality and subtle oak spice. The palate is finely structured, showing creamy texture balanced by vibrant acidity, with hints of grilled nuts and lemon curd lingering through a long, refined finish. Awarded 95 points (Cameron Douglas MS), this wine epitomises the sophistication of Gimblett Gravels Chardonnay, combining purity of fruit with precision and age-worthy complexity.