The Rowlee Vineyard influence shines through in this classic cool climate chardonnay. The abundant yet delicate palate of airy stonefruit and citrus flavours is underlined with hints of honeysuckle and flint. Integrated oak and stirring of the lees add complexity and depth. A generous flavour profile, with fine acidity and crisp minerality. Fresh and bright with lovely drive and persistence of flavour. Refined, delicate and delicious.

VINTAGE

The winter proceeding the 2019 vintage was characterised by some record cold weather and lower than average rainfall, with conditions throughout the 2018-19 growing season remaining dry. Fortunately, there was enough soil moisture to ensure strong growth of both canopy and fruit. January 2019 saw the continuation of hot and dry weather patterns with Orange escaping the extreme hot weather that impacting other regions.

Harvest commenced in late February, signalling the start of a frantic vintage as all varieties, with white and red seeming to ripen one after the other, if not all at once. Despite the rush to harvest and lower yields the quality was outstanding.

VINIFICATION

The R-Series is a selection of the very best barrels of Chardonnay from an exceptional vintage. The fruit was hand-harvested in the cool of the morning on 12 March 2019. Pressed following brief skin contact, fermentation was kicked off with wild yeast in 25% new French oak, the balance in 1 and 2 year old barrels. Aged on lees for a further 8 months prior to bottling on 30 January 2020.

Varietal composition: 100% Chardonnay
Ideal serving temperature: 12-13°C
Cellaring potential: 3 - 6 years
Food match: Pont l'Evêque
Alcohol: 14% by volume