This time it's New Zealand versus California.
The Johner 2020 Chardonnay Lime Hill has a Burgundian style and is mineral, very balanced and elegant with a powerful nose of blossoms, apricot, pink grapefruit and with air also mocha and dark toast. The wine has full body, a light fruit sweetness and a medium to long finish. 18/20 points with potential for more.
The Kistler 2021 Chardonnay Hudson Vineyard is an archetypal California Chardonnay with plenty of power and seductive flavors of vanilla, vanilla crescent, butter and cookie jar. The wine has full body, a long finish and lots of potential and is spicy and dense. The wine is actually too young now, but is crazy fun. 18.8/20 points.