Forrest Chardonnay 2008
Fruit intensity and flavour complexity are determined in the vineyard; here we exploit known flavour differences between Chardonnay clones, 15, 95 and Mendoza restrained crop levels (6.4-8.2 tonne/ha) and our local knowledge of Marlborough’s differing terroir to maximum effect. The grapes were machine harvested over a 6 day period, with 50% of the press free-run juice being put into new and older oak barriques for high solids primary and secondary malolactic fermentation prior to 10 month yeast autolysis maturation. The remaining 50% of the juice was cool fermented in tanks and aged with yeast lees stirring.
Tasting Notes
Rich toasty oak on the nose with lovely yeast lees derived, oaten/toffee biscuit aroma. It abounds with citrus (lemon/grapefruit) and stonefruit (nectarine/white peach) flavours. Subtle nuances of spice and cinnamon coming through on the palate mixed in with a delicate slightly buttery long lasting finish. Soft and harmonious with excellent depth and weight on the palate, the wine will benefit from 2-4 years cellaring. |
