The Paringa' Single Vineyard Chardonnay is the ultimate expression of the unique home vineyard in Red Hill South. It comes from a block of nine rows, which are now 30 years old. The name “The Paringa” denotes the single vineyard origin of this wine. Lindsay McCall planted the first vines on the Paringa Estate vineyard in 1985, with ten acres being under vine by 1990. From this site fruit of distinction is born from a combination of red volcanic (Ferrasol) soil, a north facing aspect and altitude of 146m on Paringa Road, Red Hill South. In creating this wine viticulture and winemaking practices are approached with the intent of preserving a pure expression of site from soil through to bottle.
2018 was an outstanding vintage. Yields were generous, and all the varieties are of exceptional quality. The fruit was handpicked, whole bunch pressed, and the unclarified juice was fermented with wild yeast, in French oak puncheons (50% new), with some initial lees stirring. It spent 11 months in oak, and it went through malolactic fermentation.
The nose is pure delight; complex aromas of white nectarine and peach, mingle with the flinty notes of recently struck matches. The palate has delicate stone fruit flavours, poised acidity, and impressive weight. The finish is long, lingering and savoury
Light yellow hue, with a smoky, creamy, yeast-lees and gently reductive bouquet. The wine is fine and restrained but also has richness and breadth, the finish leaving a satisfying aftertaste. There's terrific concentration and power in this wine, a little alcohol warmth, and the generosity is classically chardonnay. The drive through the extra-long finish is very impressive. A great drink.