"The 2008 Chardonnay is sourced from Waiheke Island and aged on its lees. It is reticent at first on the nose, but it gradually reveals some subtle notes of green lemon, kiwi fruit and apple-blossom. Nice definition, the nose gaining more intensity in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied, very well balanced, good acidity with green lemon, lime, apple and a touch of peach skin and lees towards the finish that could just do with a little more weight. But this Chardonnay works by not trying to do anything overly ambitious? just content being delicious."

"Idyllic Waiheke Island has enormous potential given its volcanic soils and microclimates on the eastern part of the island and Man O War is one of its most promising producers, especially now that they have Duncan McTavish (ex-Waipara Springs and Pegusas Bay) at the helm." -90 points- Neal Martin- Wine Advocate

WINE:
"Aromas of fresh citrus fruits and freshly melted butter on warm toast lead into a fine focused wine exhibiting fresh acidity and the clean lingering finish of fresh grapefruit." -Winery

VINIFICATION:
"Hand harvested from low yielding clone 15 and Mendoza vineyards, whole bunch pressed before cold settling and racking off lees. Inoculated in tank with 30% transferred to barrel once primary fermentation was underway."

"Aged on lees for 10 months with lees stirring of the barrel component but no malolactic fermentation. The barrel ferment component gives a nice toasty element to the nose while adding richness through the mid palate from the oak and the lees stirring. The tank matured component maintains the freshness and vibrancy of the wine and contributes poise and elegance." -Winery