Description
Region: Rapaura, Wairua Plains, Marlborough, New Zealand.
Winemaking: Clone 15 Chardonnay from the Corners Vineyard was hand harvested and whole bunch pressed. The free run juice was transferred to 70% stainless steel and 30 % seasoned oak barrels for fermentation without settling. After a short warm fermentation, the wine was left on full lees and underwent indigenous MLF in spring. The wine was then tirage bottled and matured for 2 years prior to disgorging.
Tasting Notes: Aromas of brioche. sweet pastry, and toasted citrus on the nose. A great balance between the rich autolyse character with the delicate fruit notes. This is mirrored by the creamy palate and refreshing acidity that creates tension and poise in the wine.
Technical: Alcohol - 12.5%. pH - 3.15. TA - 8.0 g/l. RS - 4.5 g/l. Contains sulphites. BioGro certified organic and vegan friendly.
Winemaker: Allan McWilliams.
Accolades:
“The very lively 2015 vintage was made from Chardonnay, estate grown in The Corners Vineyard at Rapaura, in Marlborough. Hand-picked and fermented in a mix of old oak (30 per cent) and stainless steel (70 per cent) barrels, it was disgorged after two years on its yeast lees. Bright, light lemon/green, with a fragrant, citrusy bouquet, it is vigorous, with strong, grapefruit-like flavours, gently yeast notes adding complexity, and a crisp, unusually dry (4 grams/litre of residual sugar) finish. Certified organic.” - Michael Cooper, 4.5/5 stars
“It’s wonderfully complex and seductively expressed on the nose showing white flesh nectarine, rock melon, lemon peel and brioche characters. The palate offers terrific concentration and depth, superbly enhanced by creamy texture and bright acidity, leading to a lengthy expansive finish. Stylish and immensely appealing. At its best: now to 2024. Certified organic.” - Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, 94/100 points
"A lovely yellow gold hue leads to aromas of lemon pie, peach, apple and a distinctive leesy autolysis. Very inviting, youthful with a fine youthful complexity. On the palate are flavours of lemon peel and peach, apple, and grapefruit then a fine leesy autolysis layering in texture, a touch of spice and flavours. High acidity, refreshing mouthfeel and dry on the finish. The mousse is elegant with an abundance of small bubble carrying the citrus and crisp apple flavours then leesy brioche moments." - Cameron Douglas MS, 92/100 points