3. LINDAUER SPECIAL RESERVE BLANC DE BLANCS NV ($15.99)

Gold Medal

Crafted solely from chardonnay fruit, this pretty, pale, lovely has persistent bead and cloud-like mousse and complex biscuity aromatics. “It shows delicious depth,” noted Yvonne. “Persistent toasty, toffee notes and excellent lemony layers,” added Colin. This is such a stylish wine and when yeast autolysis, fig and breadcrust are stitched in, the result is a rich, sumptuous wine indeed. “It has an expansive palate and real energy,” noted Andrew.

4. DANIEL LE BRUN BLANC DE BLANC 2011 ($39.99) Gold Medal

“This wine has great length and line,” commented Andrew. “It’s poised and well educated, with lifted almond aromas, macadamia and lemony loveliness.” This chardonnay-centric fizz is wonderfully rounded with a satisfying, creamy, mid-palate and it’s maturing beautifully, according to Yvonne. The honey toast and hints of lemon herbal tea add to its weighty, fruity mouthfeel and flinty, zesty finish.

5. DEUTZ MARLBOROUGH BLANC DE BLANC 2014 ($32.99) Gold Medal

This younger vintage example is an absolute stunner. “Sophisticated, stylish, nutty, full, creamy and loaded with personality,” noted Yvonne. Colin and Sachi