The 2022 Home Block Chardonnay presents a pale straw appearance and a complex, layered aromatic profile. Initial notes of ripe Bosc pear, lemon curd, and white peach give way to sophisticated savory undertones of hazelnut and a distinct, chalky minerality. Richly textured on the palate, it is defined by a creamy, rich texture that is expertly framed by sharp, focused acidity. Flavors of ripe pear, lemon curd, and citrus peel lead to a long, savory finish with integrated oak spice. This is a serious Chardonnay that balances richness and freshness beautifully and has the structure to evolve well over the next 3-5 years.
WINEMAKING
100% handpicked on 23rd February 2022. Whole bunch pressed using a membrane press, with overnight juice settling. Primary fermentation was temperature-controlled in French oak barriques (25% new). Matured on full ferment lees for 12 months with minimal stirring. Bottled 01st March 2023.
Home Block
Steels Gate Vineyard, Chardonnay block. Situated at 230m above sea level, the Chardonnay was planted in the early 1980’s on an undulating, south-west facing slope on friable grey loam soils. Completely unirrigated and hand nurtured. Surrounded by National Park.
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.
