The 2008 Valhalla Chardonnay has a potent nose of fresh grapefruit nectarine and passion fruit whilst the new oak (20%) is very well integrated. The palate is very harmonious with tropical overtones good acidity fresh citrus fruit with touches of brioche and a little vanilla pod. Green lemon hints of white peach developing great length. This is a very fine quite assertive Chardonnay. Just 450 cases produced. 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. -Neal Martin