Kelly Washington Rapaura Marlborough Chardonnay 2018

Description

• French oak
• Fine acidity
• White peach & citrus
• Highly textured

"The stellar 2018 Chardonnay was entirely barrel fermented, using 25% new wood. All Clone 15, it showcases delicate fruit notes of white peaches, melon and citrus strongly accented by toasted nuts and oak spice, yet it retains a sense of poise and elegance. It’s medium-bodied, smooth and streamlined, with a silky texture and a long, refreshing finish. Bravo!" Robert Parker Wine Advocate, Apr 2020

A long-time favourite variety of winemaker Tamra Kelly to make (and drink!) With Kelly Washington Chardonnay they are constantly striving to strike a fine balance between structure, reduction and acidity. The 2018 is quite subtle on the nose, offering mealy and smoky notes. The palate is highly textured and layered, yet supported by fine boned acidity and classic bready notes. A classic cool climate Chardonnay.

Having had the first vintage under their belt, it was wonderful to commence Vintage 2018 having had some experience with the plots and the wines that have translated. Although winemakers did not experience the challenging nature of cool weather over the ripening period in 2018, they did face another difficult vintage with some challenging intermittent rain events, so it was crucial to have a great deal of vigilance and care with picking decisions, and sorting of the fruit. Only the best bunches were picked and made it to be pressed. The lovely Rapaura Chardonnay fruit was extremely low yielding, so they were happy to make the decision to pick early to retain vibrancy and acidity.

100% Whole Bunch pressed, minimum settling for a portion and the other portion racked directly to barrel. 100% in French oak barrels – 25 % new French oak puncheons, 20% 2nd fill, 25% 3rd fill, 30% in neutral oak. 11 months on full lees, in the above barrels and puncheons. Occasionally stirred. No fining.