2013 Chardonnay

The 2013 vintage in Margaret River is again looking exceptional for quality as the hot, dry January compensated for some wild weather in late Spring. A tropical storm hit Perth and the south west on 30th November, with notable damage including the Terrace Hotel in Perth losing its roof! Vineyards across Margaret River were affected by hail damage but once again the Victory Point site was undamaged and our production levels were maintained. Heavy rainfall in December caused flooding in nearby Collie but was beneficial by the time it reached us. A warm January meant seed and tannin ripeness could progress evenly and the fruit and vines maintained good condition.

The Chardonnay fruit was picked by hand in small batches from 26th February through to the 1st March 2013.

Vinification

On delivery to the winery the whole bunches are pressed to tank for brief settling before being racked to barrel. Barrel fermentation took place using wild and cultured yeast. The wine was matured in French oak barriques, 36% new, for ten months with some early lees stirring. The wine is assessed each year for the need for MLF and in the 2013 vintage it was decided 10% was required.

The final blend of Chardonnay clones is approximately Mendoza, 41% & clones 95, 14%, 76 14%, 96 11% & 277 20%.

The wine was bottled with screwcap closures in early February, 2014.

Tasting Notes

Aromatically, hints of oyster, jasmine, peach, mandarin, lemon curd and almond meal engage the nose. The palate is both complex and fresh offering bright acidity, along with generosity and texture. Melon and stone fruit flavours interact with hints of cinnamon, quince, brioche and salted caramel. The finish is fine, long and compelling.