Church Road Grand Reserve Chardonnay

Church Road Grand Reserve Chardonnay embodies the finest expression of Hawke’s Bay craftsmanship — a world-class white wine balancing richness, precision and minerality. Crafted from select parcels in the Tuki Tuki Valley, it captures both the region’s coastal freshness and the depth of its sun-ripened fruit.

Tasting Notes & Experience

Fresh citrus and blossom lead the bouquet, supported by ripe stone fruit and layered with roasted nuts, toasted brioche and smoky flint. On the palate, it is full-bodied and luxuriously textured, balanced by lively acidity and a spine of slate-like minerality that carries through a long, elegant finish.

Key Details

• Winery: Church Road
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Region: Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand
• Vintage: 2023
• Alcohol: 13.5%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Other: Hand-harvested; wild fermentation; barrel-aged; crafted from Tuki Tuki & Redstone vineyards

Craftsmanship & Story

Church Road’s Grand Reserve Chardonnay is a testament to over 125 years of winemaking mastery. Using hand-picked fruit from the cool coastal valleys of Hawke’s Bay, Chief Winemaker Chris Scott blends traditional Burgundian methods with modern precision. Wild yeast fermentation, lees ageing, and gentle oak integration produce a Chardonnay of structure, depth and enduring elegance.

Special Features

This acclaimed release offers the perfect harmony of vibrant citrus, creamy texture and toasted complexity. Its flinty minerality and balanced acidity bring freshness to its layered profile, showcasing Church Road’s signature craftsmanship and timeless sophistication.

Recognition & Accolades

Widely celebrated for its precision and depth, this Grand Reserve Chardonnay continues Church Road’s award-winning legacy.

• Double Gold – CWSA (China Wine & Spirits Awards)
• Gold & Trophy – International Wine & Spirit Competition 2025
• 92/100 Points – Stephen Wong, The Real Review
• 96/100 Points & Top Rank Award – Bob Campbell MW, The Real Review
• Gold – International Wine Challenge
• Gold – Dish Magazine
• 94/100 Points – Jasper Morris, Inside Burgundy

These accolades affirm its place among New Zealand’s most sophisticated and age-worthy Chardonnays.

Food Pairings

With its creamy mouthfeel and toasted brioche nuances, this Chardonnay pairs beautifully with pan-seared scallops in brown butter, roasted chicken with tarragon, or lobster in drawn butter. Its citrus brightness complements mushroom risotto and rich pasta dishes, while the flinty minerality cuts through soft cheeses like brie and camembert for a truly harmonious experience.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

An exquisite choice for wine lovers and collectors alike — elegant, expressive and deeply refined. Perfect for milestone celebrations, luxurious dining, or gifting that leaves a lasting impression.