This winery retains its cult status by continually producing wines of poise, class and adhering to strict biodynamic principals. The Bannockburn Chardonnay is at this stage pert and linear, with floral and citrus notes. It will take a little time for this little gem to begin to give up its secrets.

Olivier Leflaive was co-manager of Domaine Leflaive until 1994 before withdrawing to concentrate on his own venture which he started in 1985. Today the domaine produces wine from some 65 appellations with 85% of the production being white wine. One of Burgundys most respected producers the estate produces a number of domaine wines from its own vineyards alongside its range of negocé bottlings. This Chardonnay has aromas of white flowers, peach, grilled almonds and lemon peel dominate on a mineral background. The attack is full and warm on the palate with a lively and gourmand finish.

Small-batch Chardonnay from Marlborough negociants Novum. Stonefruit, cream and mineral on the nose. Flintiness meets fruit on the palate, making for a distinctive medium-bodied wine. An appealingly long finish shows this to be a top tier Chardonnay. Novum use small parcels of fruit from specially selected sites on established Marlborough vineyards to craft the best wines and expressions of terroir possible. Their first vintage arrived in 2016. Novums primary focus is on Syrah, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

FABIEN COCHE, Bourgogne Chardonnay Grandes Coutures

Domaine du Roc Des Boutires En Bertilionne , Pouilly-Fuissé The fruit is sourced exclusively from En Bertilionne, located in the southern end of Burgundy. 0.57 hectares of limestone with shoals of marl, very deep chalk. The old vines (35-years), or vielles vignes, of Chardonnay are planted at an altitude of between 250 and 500 meters, which is quite high compared to other AOC Burgundies. The result is mature, well-positioned vines producing fruit that creates wines of complexity and freshness.

The citrus rind and grapefuit lead the palate to an overall fine yet textural journey. Cape Mentelle Chardonnay had this distinctive minerally line too, apparent with focussed refreshing acidity. Faint nuancesof soft nougat and cashews also add to what is a harmonious balance and an elegant and length finish.

Macedonias wine history dates back before Alexander and was considered one of the best wine making regions by the Roman empire. Today, Macedonia is continuing its rich wine heritage with modern interpretations of both indigenous and international varieties. Full-bodied and barrel aged, this Chardonnay shows peach, kiwi, lemon and elegant minerality with a long clean, fresh finish.