2006 Chardonnay

The elegant structure of the Victory Point Chardonnay is largely due to the combination of French clones that make up approximately two thirds of the vineyard. Four Burgundian clones (76, 95, 96 & 277) have been planted alongside the more traditional Mendoza clone.

The Chardonnay vines have been dry grown from planting and are showing the benefit of having developed a deep root structure, however yields have remained extremely low.

2006 was a record cool growing season in Margaret River. During the mild season, attention to detail in the vineyard ensured the grapes attained full ripeness and remained disease free. The vines were leaf plucked and the canopy growth managed, to ensure full fruit exposure. The yield was extremely low and the fruit was hand picked on 21/3/06 at 12.8 Baume.

The wine has been fermented and aged in 100% new French oak (Remond – Troncais) for 8 months.

Tasting Notes

Colour:  A deep straw hue with green tints and the condition is bright.

Bouquet: The nose is especially vibrant and shows primary fruit characters typical of the new Chardonnay clones.  These are reminiscent of stone fruit and include aromas of nectarine and peach, as well as grapefruit, guava and loquat. There are toasty and roasted nut-like notes in the background, as well as an interesting touch of maltiness.

Palate: The stone fruit flavours fill the front and mid palate with an almost sweet generosity and these are balanced by fresh acidity and grape tannins.  The wine finishes with toasty oak and malt notes from barrel aging that give a long clean finish.

Cellaring: Overall, the wine displays the lively fruit characters and balance that are expected from a long, cool growing season like 2006 and it drinks very well as a young wine.  However, those who choose to keep it will see it develop well in the cellar for at least 5 years.