2023 Port Phillip Estate Red Hill Chardonnay

The Chardonnay block at Port Phillip Estate’s Red Hill vineyard includes three parcels. The largest, 1.3 hectares, is 31 years old. A smaller 0.3-hectare area was planted seven years later, and a third area with closely planted vines was established in 2013. While the Red Hill vineyard is mainly red basalt, the Chardonnay block is in sandy grey loam over yellow clay. The fruit was gently whole-bunch pressed into 228L and 350L French oak barrels (20% new) and fermented spontaneously with ambient yeasts. The wine was aged on lees for 11 months without battonage, then bottled without fining and with minimal filtration.
Brilliant pale straw colour with greenish tinged edges and a watery hue. Delightful white peach, nectarine and dried honey aromas fill the nostrils followed by some biscuity nougat, crème brulee and subtle gun flint notes. Rich and creamy textured yet fresh, the palate is layered with white peach, nectarine and dried honey flavours which meld into a crème brulee, biscuit and citrusy nougat back drop. Refined medium to long finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5%