Savaterre Chardonnay 2022

Keppel Smith began his wine career in 1996, studying winemaking at CSU and gaining practical experience with Phillip Jones at Bass Phillip. On his 40-hectare Savaterre property, situated at 440 meters above sea level, he has cultivated 8 hectares of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir (planted closely at 7500 vines per hectare), along with Shiraz and Sagrantino. The vineyard operates under organic principles, while the winemaking methods are inspired by traditional Old World practices.

vineyard is elevated at 440m (1440 feet) above sea level and is farmed along organic principles. No pesticides are used. The soil consists of ancient granitic “buckshot” over decomposed clay. These unique gravels are rich in minerals and provide excellent drainage whilst the clay provides some sustained water to the vines in summer. This ancient, poor soil naturally limits the cropping level to less than 4.5 tons per hectare. The vines are close planted at 7500 vines per hectare . This allows the vine to carry a smaller crop and direct all its energies to producing intense flavours and wonderful textures - traits that are found primarily in only outstanding vineyards. This unique combination of soil, climate and viticulture provides Savaterre with intense fruit of the very highest quality. The grapes are hand picked in the cool of the autumn morning and transported to the winery which is next to the vineyard. Savaterre's vineyard has been named in the top 25 vineyards in Australia. Vintage occurs between mid-March and mid-April depending on the season.

A complex and powerful Chardonnay made with tradition in mind, aromas of pear, white peach, citrus blossom and toasted almond waft from the glass. Exceptional quality grapes from the Savaterre Beechworth vineyard, mineral with a body of oak from ageing in French barriques. Good for cellaring.