Valli Waitaki Vineyard Chardonnay 2023

Description

Hazelnut, Oak, Pastry

The limestone-rich soils influence the aromatics and texture of this wine lending an ethereal flow that dances in harmony with the racy acidity that gives the wine power and memory. The nose is complex with aromas of lemon curd, lime zest, grapefruit, hazelnut, vanilla, and a subtle savoury note derived from the solids included in the barrel fermentation. The palate shows bright citrus and secondary flavours in synergy with the fine texture. Made in small quantities, this Chardonnay is fresh and intriguing at release and should continue to evolve for 12+ years.

Harvested on 12th, 24th and 28th April 2023, from average 12 year old vines. 312 dozen total production. Grapes for this vintage came from three vineyards including the first fruit off our Estate. Based on the positive result from our trial last year, we again did one very early pick for extreme freshness (approximately 30% of the final wine), with the balance picked nearly two weeks later. The small bunches were hand-harvested and whole-bunch pressed for gentle extraction. The pressed juice was warmed in the tank, homogenised and put directly into barrels to benefit from the full solids during fermentation. The wine was fermented in French oak barriques (23% new) with weekly stirring through malolactic fermentation. It was blended at 11 months and bottled without filtration. Natural sediment may occur.