Cloudy Bay Chardonnay

Cloudy Bay Chardonnay is a refined expression of Marlborough’s elegance and precision. Crafted from hand-picked fruit in the Wairau Valley and Southern Valleys, it balances ripe stone fruit and citrus purity with a fine mineral edge — a benchmark of New Zealand cool-climate Chardonnay.

Tasting Notes & Experience

Bright lemon gold in hue, this Chardonnay reveals lifted aromas of Meyer lemon, white nectarine and a whisper of vanilla crème brûlée. The palate is poised and vibrant, unfolding layers of citrus, pear and toasted hazelnut. Subtle oak and saline freshness create balance and depth, finishing long, elegant and mouth-watering.

Key Details

• Winery: Cloudy Bay
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Region: Marlborough, New Zealand
• Vintage: 2022
• Alcohol: 13%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Other: 11 months barrel aging

Craftsmanship & Story

Founded in 1985 by visionary winemaker David Hohnen, Cloudy Bay helped define Marlborough as a world-class wine region. Now under the stewardship of LVMH, the estate continues its meticulous pursuit of purity and balance. Chardonnay fruit from the Wairau Valley’s stony soils and the clay-rich Southern Valleys is hand-picked and whole-bunch pressed before barrel fermentation with indigenous yeasts, achieving remarkable texture and complexity while maintaining vibrant freshness.

Special Features

Cloudy Bay’s Chardonnay is a study in harmony — restrained yet expressive, with fruit concentration tempered by saline minerality. The combination of fine French oak and Marlborough’s maritime climate delivers a seamless, gastronomic wine with exceptional longevity and poise.

Recognition & Accolades

Widely acclaimed for its balance and longevity, Cloudy Bay Chardonnay consistently earns high praise across vintages.

• 5 Stars – Michael Cooper (2022 vintage)
• 93/100 Points – The Real Review (2022 vintage)
• 92/100 Points – James Suckling (2022 vintage)
• 93/100 Points – Bob Campbell MW, The Real Review (2021 vintage)
• 93/100 Points – Vinous, Rebecca Gibb MW (2021 vintage)
• 5 Stars – Michael Cooper (2020 vintage)

Such consistent acclaim reflects its finesse, ageing potential and world-class balance of fruit and oak.

Food Pairings

This elegant Chardonnay finds its perfect companions in dishes that echo its creamy texture and citrus lift. Pair it with seared scallops in lemon-butter sauce, grilled lobster or roasted chicken with thyme and garlic. It also shines beside creamy mushroom risotto or a Caprese salad, where its bright acidity refreshes the palate. A touch of oak and hazelnut warmth makes it ideal with smoked fish or soft cow’s milk cheeses.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

Polished, sophisticated and unmistakably Marlborough — Cloudy Bay Chardonnay is an inspired choice for discerning wine lovers and an elegant gift for any occasion.

Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery

Order online for fast NZ delivery. Lovingly packed with a selection of stylish packaging and a personal message option to complete the perfect gift.