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Hand picked and gently pressed, prior to a brief overnight settling of the juice. 100% wild primary and secondary fermentations in barrel (10% new) over eighteen months. Bottled without fining and with only minimal filtration.
A mild spring after a wet winter in 2021 gave the vines a good start to growth. Budburst occurred around average timing from early September with only a few frost events occurring. Flowering was kind and produced what would have been a favourable yield. However, December and February brought significant rainfall (more than 200mm) to the usually dry period, giving the vines renewed vigour but unfortunately also increased the threat of disease. Hand dropping of diseased bunches was paramount to retain quality. This resulted in a smaller than expected harvest but one with ample classic fruit driven characters.
Pure citrus flavours lead on the palate with a build up of nutty complexity and oatmeal notes. The glycerol textures and slippery, saline acidity offer refreshment and drive through to the finish. A chardonnay with immediate drinkability.
Warm tones of ripe citrus are complimented with savoury, mealy notes which developed over time on lees. The fine grained oak flavours sit in the background and add layers to the wine with hints of smoke, threading the wood and the fruit together.
