This is 100% Chardonnay from a lovely, mature site in the Upper Yarra Valley. The vines grow on volcanic red soils on a steep, fast-draining slope at an altitude of 350m. The elevation makes for cooler growing conditions compared with the valley floor. The slower ripening process allows intense, complex aromas and flavours to develop. The cool nights help the grapes retain vital acidity for freshness and drive in the resulting wine.
The 2018 vintage is reflective of a classic cool-climate Chardonnay, with typical Upper Yarra Valley characteristics. This year we had good intermittent rainfall with cool to mild temperatures and no scorching hot days. The Chardonnay came in later than usual, yet retained excellent acidity and freshness, lending itself to encompass detail, poise and length; a great vintage.
Hand-picked, whole-bunch pressed, fermented in French puncheons (40% new) for 5 months, thence to tank for 3 months. Good quality fruit, the palate finally unwinds itself towards the back-palate and finish of grapefruit, rock melon.
94 points James Halliday winecompanion.com.au
Bright and youthful yellow colour from centre to rim. White peach aromatics, vanilla and lemon pith - lovely, toasty French oak. A delicate, refined chardonnay. Oak is subdued. Fruit given centre stage. Minerals and natural acidity, an underlying texture and grip that underwrites its length. A sensational young wine. Everything in its right place.