Chardonnay
2024
Pale to mid lemon-yellow with a green-gold hue. Subtle lemon and grapefruit citrus notes are layered with underlying nougat and cashew. The fruit expression is restrained and composed, showing delicate white peach, a hint of nectarine, and soft white florals. The palate offers depth and power, with yellow peach and a touch of pithy mandarin carried across a tactile yet rounded texture. Nougat follows through from the nose, supported by almond kernel and the lightest whisper of oak. Silky acidity defines the finish, delivering line, length, and a persistent citrus focus.
The Chardonnay was handpicked and whole-bunch pressed to preserve purity and finesse. The juice was allowed to settle overnight before being racked into a combination of French oak puncheons (500L) and barriques (225L) with juice solids included to enhance texture and complexity. Fermentation occurred in barrel over four weeks, with natural yeast contributing to the wine’s character. Following fermentation, the wine was aged on fine lees in oak, with regular stirring and topping every four weeks to build richness and integrate flavours. The maturation process spanned 10 months, utilising 25% new oak, with the remaining barrels being one year or older, to achieve balance and subtlety. The final blend was carefully crafted before bottling to capture the elegance and depth of this Chardonnay.