Chardonnay, Blank Canvas `Tano` Marlborough, 2023

The Blank Canvas ‘Tano’ Marlborough Chardonnay 2023 is a masterclass in precision and power. Crafted by Matt Thomson, this is no ordinary Marlborough Chardonnay—it’s rich yet refined, with layers of ripe citrus, stone fruit, and toasted hazelnut wrapped in a beautiful mineral backbone. A touch of well-judged oak adds depth without overpowering its pure, vibrant character. Silky, complex, and utterly compelling, this is a Chardonnay for serious wine lovers. Limited bottles—don’t miss out!

"a beautiful first-release single-vineyard chardonnay" - 97 points from James Suckling.

Matt Thomson is one of New Zealand’s most respected and experienced winemakers, known for his hands-on, detail-driven approach to crafting world-class wines. With over 30 years in the industry, he has worked extensively across New Zealand, Italy, France, and Australia, bringing a wealth of global expertise to his own label, Blank Canvas. Watch out for his name is some of our entry wines.

"New Zealand Chardonnay has never been better," announces Master of Wine Emma Jenkins in her latest Decanter piece, aptly entitled 'Why now is the time to embrace New Zealand Chardonnay.'

Delving deep into the history, evolution of style and the incredibly exciting diversity of Chardonnay in New Zealand, Emma finishes by singling out her Top 12 to try now.

Their brand new 'Tano' Chardonnay from the wild, windswept coastal Blind River subregion received a terrific 96 points with Emma noting its "delicious savoury, silky palate with a briny oyster-shell note and invitingly brisk acidity," characteristics that we also adore from this special site and demonstrating the compelling stylistic diversity we have here in Marlborough.

They think Emma is spot on in her observation that Kiwi Chardonnay "is gaining recognition for its balance of fruit purity, bright acidity and silky complexity." It's this fruit intensity, balance and purity that is so world-class and we're excited to be part of its upward trajectory in Aotearoa New Zealand.

With only a handful of cases of Tano left at the winery, there will be a long wait before the 2024 is released, which is currently maturing on lees in Tano cuves where it will stay until November.