Region: Waikari, North Canterbury, New Zealand
Variety: Chardonnay
Vintage: 2023
The Wine
Biodynamic. Field of Fire takes its name from the wild grasses that grow among the vines on this gently sloped, southeast-facing clay-limestone plot, nestled in the sheltered northeastern corner of the Waikari estate. Originally planted in 2000 at 11,111 vines per hectare and expanded in 2018, this site shows a cooler, rockier profile than Lion’s Tooth, with shallow glauconitic clays (10–15 cm) over limestone bedrock.
In 2023, frost reduced yields to a single barrel — yet the resulting wine shimmers with purity. The aromas are chiselled and tense: Meyer lemon, lime zest, struck match and ocean spray. The palate is taut and mineral, showing precision and drive more akin to Chablis than to anything from the New World. There’s creaminess at the core, but it’s hemmed in by a corset of acidity that pulls the wine into laser-focused length. A saline, citrus-laced finish reinforces its maritime, mineral soul.
Cellared Says
The Field of Fire 2023 crackles with tension — saline, electric and pure. A wine of restraint and intellect, destined for those who prize structure over flash. Drink 2027–2036.
Wine Reviews
“Just one barrel of the 2023 Field of Fire was made. Spring frosts wiped out most of the crop. While oaked, its fruit profile recalls the cool wines of Chablis. A firm, focused fledgling Chardonnay with a lightly creamy mid-palate and a corset of powerful acidity that leaves the sensation of wringing out a wet towel. Apple and pear meet integrated brioche and hazelnut. When it unfurls, this may become one of the most extended Field of Fires yet.” — Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous 93 pts
Region: Waikari, North Canterbury, New Zealand
Variety: Chardonnay
Vintage: 2023
The Wine
Biodynamic. Field of Fire takes its name from the wild grasses that grow among the vines on this gently sloped, southeast-facing clay-limestone plot, nestled in the sheltered northeastern corner of the Waikari estate. Originally planted in 2000 at 11,111 vines per hectare and expanded in 2018, this site shows a cooler, rockier profile than Lion’s Tooth, with shallow glauconitic clays (10–15 cm) over limestone bedrock.
In 2023, frost reduced yields to a single barrel — yet the resulting wine shimmers with purity. The aromas are chiselled and tense: Meyer lemon, lime zest, struck match and ocean spray. The palate is taut and mineral, showing precision and drive more akin to Chablis than to anything from the New World. There’s creaminess at the core, but it’s hemmed in by a corset of acidity that pulls the wine into laser-focused length. A saline, citrus-laced finish reinforces its maritime, mineral soul.
Cellared Says
The Field of Fire 2023 crackles with tension — saline, electric and pure. A wine of restraint and intellect, destined for those who prize structure over flash. Drink 2027–2036.
Wine Reviews
“Just one barrel of the 2023 Field of Fire was made. Spring frosts wiped out most of the crop. While oaked, its fruit profile recalls the cool wines of Chablis. A firm, focused fledgling Chardonnay with a lightly creamy mid-palate and a corset of powerful acidity that leaves the sensation of wringing out a wet towel. Apple and pear meet integrated brioche and hazelnut. When it unfurls, this may become one of the most extended Field of Fires yet.” — Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous 93 pts
