2020 Blanc de Blancs

$55.00

Additional information

Vineyard

Melba Block

Vintage

2020

TASTING NOTES

Elegant and precise, our 2020 Blanc de Blancs is a celebration of purity and patience. Crafted exclusively from Chardonnay and matured for six years on lees, it showcases remarkable complexity and finesse, balanced by a whisper of sweetness from its low 2g/L dosage. In the glass, it shimmers with a pale straw hue and a fine, persistent bead. The nose is lifted and expressive, revealing layers of lemon curd, crisp green apple, toasted brioche, and crushed almond, underscored by subtle hints of oyster shell and flint—a nod to its extended maturation. The palate is taut and refined, with a pristine acid line that drives length and freshness. Citrus zest and white peach interplay with savoury autolytic notes—think sourdough crust and hazelnut—offering depth without weight. The finish is long, chalky, and mineral-laced, tapering to a delicately dry close that lingers with grace. This méthode traditionnelle sparkler is drinking beautifully now, yet has the structure to evolve further in bottle. A perfect pairing with freshly shucked oysters, tempura zucchini flowers, or a quiet moment of celebration.

WINEMAKING

Winter 2019 into early 2020 was marked by cooler temperatures and consistent rainfall, leading to slower vine development and extended ripening. A mild summer with fewer heat spikes allowed for excellent acid retention and precise flavour development—ideal conditions for sparkling base. 100% handpicked Chardonnay on 03 March 2020 and chilled overnight in the cool room. Fruit was crushed & destemmed gently hydraulic basket pressed to 300 bar, with a focus on finesse and purity. Juice was cold settled before inoculation, with a controlled 10-day fermentation. Temperature was carefully managed to preserve delicate aromatics and structure—laying the foundation for extended aging on lees and exceptional refinement in bottle.

Melba Block

Situated at 150m above sea level, planted in the early 1980s. Similar to the Homeblock, the Melba block vines are all cared for by hand, 100% cane pruned to ensure best quality fruit is grown and hand harvested.

Alcohol

12.2%%

Additional Notes

5 years on lees Dosage 2g/l 7.0 Std Drinks Vegan Friendly

pH

N/A

Titratable Acidity

N/A
Steels Gate Home Block Vineyard
Situated at 230m above sea level was planted in the late 1970’s on an undulating slope on friable grey loam soils. Completely non irrigated and hand nurtured, surrounded by National Park. The vines are cared for by hand and the grapes carefully hand picked at the perfect harvest time. This 6+ acres comprises of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes.
Steels Gate Melba Block Vineyard
Situated at 150m above sea level was planted in the early 1980s. Similar to the Homeblock, the Melba vines are all cared for by hand, 100% cane pruned to ensure best quality fruit is grown and hand harvested.
Nagambie Vineyard
Nagambie Vineyard is a partnership with a family estate located in the picturesque Nagambie region. Still cool climate, this region produces lovely medium bodies reds and some lovely Rieslings and other similar white varieties.