2020 Mt Difficulty Roaring Meg Chardonnay

Our New Zealand neighbours have made a name for themselves in more ways than one. They are the home of Middle Earth and wild & wonderful creatures like hobbits, wizards, goblins, dwarves, balrogs, orcs and dragons.

But they’re also producing outstanding premium wine that’s worthy of the world stage.

This ‘Roaring Meg’ Chardonnay from Central Otago is one such example. With 91 points from Sam Kim at Wine Orbit, it’s an acclaimed example of how good whites from this Pinot-centric region can be.

So, what’s with the name? It’s a colourful tale, originating from the region’s pioneering past. In the 1860s, when gold was discovered in Central Otago, hordes of people flooded in to seek their fortune - and it wasn’t just men. A high-spirited, enterprising young woman named Meg was among them. She was carried across the river, making such a fuss that the body of water was named after her. Or so the legend goes…

Mt Difficulty winemaker Matt Dicey said that the 2020 vintage was a tricky one, with disturbed weather patterns and cool temperatures creating some worry. Despite this, the fruit condition was superb.

“Honeysuckle, baked apple and brioche aromas overlay some flinty minerality on the nose. A soft texture on the palate with a full mouth feel of rich pear, stone fruit and custard notes. The long palate shows good freshness from the cool vintage” says Matt.

This is a truly delightful NZ Chardonnay, and if you can bear to find room in your cellar and wait another 2 years, it will reward your patience. Or, if you simply cannot wait, find a party tree, invite all your friends (hobbit & human alike) and enjoy with good company.