2021 A. Rodda Smiths Chardonnay, Beechworth

Grapes were hand-picked and pressed to 500 litre French oak puncheons (39% first use) without clarification or racking for non-temperature controlled fermentation. Malolactic fermentation was not encouraged so as to preserve freshness and natural acidity. The wine was rested on lees for 10 months prior to bottling.

Intense aromas of ripe white stone fruit and nashi pear are complexed with wet stone, almond and toast. The combination of lees, natural acidity and phenolics create a mouthfeel that is full and creamy yet long, persistent and savoury.