Winemakers Collection Nelson Barrique Fermented Chardonnay 2002 - Cellar Release

Awards

Silver ~ 2004 Bragato Wine Competition
Silver ~ 2004 San Francisco International Wine Competition
Silver ~ 2004 Royal Easter Wine Show
Cuisine ~ Four Stars July 2004
Silver ~ 2003 Air New Zealand Wine Awards
Gold ~ 2003 Liquorland Top 100

Wine Analysis

Vineyard: Seifried Rabbit Island Vineyard
Date of Harvest: 12 April 2002
Sugar at Harvest: 24.0°Brix
pH of Wine: 3.21
T.A of Wine: 10.35g/L

The Vineyard

The Rabbit Island vineyard is stony and silty with a very gravely sub surface. The ground is very free draining, friable and easy to work, giving a light and intensely varietal crop. The Mendoza clone of Chardonnay, with “hen and chicken” bunches is no exception.

The canopy was extensively leaf plucked during the summer while the grapes were developing, allowing light and air movement around the fruit zone and helping to develop the lovely citrus and passionfruit flavours.

Winemakers Note

The juice was fermented in a new American and French Oak barriques. The wine then underwent malolactic fermentation, following this it remained on the lees. Fortnightly lees stirring for 12 months contributed to a rich doughy weight to the palate.

Tasting Note

Rich full flavours with a lovely depth of ripe, slightly buttery citrus passionfruit flavours, a nutty oak and fresh acidity.