10 Years of Fat & Sassy Chardonnay!
August 01, 2024
Fat & Sassy Chardonnay Turns 10!
Back in 2013 – ten years ago, Tony Bish Wines embarked on an exciting journey by producing our very first vintage. We proudly released two wines: the now renown Fat & Sassy, which has been embraced near and far and is our most popular Chardonnay; and the Summertime Chardonnay - a delightful Gisborne Chardonnay that we produced for a brief period before choosing to dedicate our energy exclusively to crafting wines from the magnificent Hawke’s Bay region.
Our commitment to this goal has been unwavering, however 2023 presented an unexpected challenge. The catastrophic flood that devastated Hawke’s Bay, significantly impacted our crop. During this time of adversity, the Marlborough growers stepped up, generously sharing their bountiful vintage. As a result, the 2023 vintage of Fat & Sassy is a unique blend, featuring grapes from both Hawke’s Bay and Marlborough. This special vintage is now available online, at The Urban Winery and a store or bar near you.
Reflecting on this decade-long journey, I am filled with immense gratitude. Producing Chardonnay has always been a passion of mine, but working alongside my children, Oscar and Genevieve, over the past few years has deepened my appreciation for both the grape and the business. This venture, which Karryn and I just over a decade ago, has grown into something truly special.
As we celebrate this milestone, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been part of our journey. Your support and enthusiasm have been instrumental in our success. Here's to many more years of crafting exceptional wines and sharing cherished memories.
Reviews:
Joelle Thompson - June 2024
Top drop under - $25 Chardonnay of the week - 17.5/20
The writing was on the wall for an extremely challenging season after Cyclone Gabrielle visited Hawke's Bay in February 2023 so Chardonnista Tony Bish looked further afield to Marlborough to source grapes for his beloved Fat & Sassy. The blend is 75% Marlborough and 25% Hawke's Bay Chardonnay in this wine, which play nicely together in this rendition of Fat & Sass', which tastes zesty with citrusy purity and a rounded fleshy note on the finish. It has noticeably higher acidity and a smidgeon less fat than typically.
I find it delicious and superb value. This wine is a great reason to raise a glass to the collegial warmth, generosity and spirit of sharing that, in my experience, characterises the wine industry above all. RRP $23.99
May you live in interesting times indeed.
Cameron Douglas MS - April 26, 2024 - 91 Points
Bright, fresh, youthful and textured wine with aromas and flavours of fresh peaches and red apples. There’s a seam of vanilla and fine lees for dreadth and textures, complexity and charm. Dry, medium+ weighted with a core of citrus then stone fruits, some spice and satin texture. Balanced, well made and ready to dring from late 2024 through 2028. RRP $23.99
Candice Wine Chat - June 2024 - 91 Points
Bright, even, pale yellow. The nose is vibrant with bright fruit aromas of citrus, pear, nectarine, toast and roasted nut details. Medium-full bodied, aromas of grapefruit, pear and peels melded with nectarine, delicate spice and almond. The creamy mouthfeel is packed with juicy fruit. Fine phenolic floats on a fresh, salivating acid line, an enticing interplay of fresh acidity and creaminess. The result of Cyclone Gabrielle, healthy fruit was sourced from 75% Marlborough and 25% Hawkes Bay, balanced oak and creamy palate stayed true to 'Fat & Sassy'. Match with grilled fish and prawns over the next 3 years. Aged 9 months in barrel with batonnage and 100% MLF. 18+/20 pts RRP $23.99
Wine Orbit by Sam KIm - May 2024 - 93 Points/5*
This is immediately appealing on the nose with golden peach, mango, pineapple and roasted hazelnut aromas, followed by a delectably expressed palate offering creamy texture backed by refreshing acidity. Upfront and flavoursome with a lengthy generous finish. A blend of grapes from Marlborough (75%) & Hawke's Bay (25%). At its best: now to 2027. $23.99
Antony Bish
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