Bellarong Chardonnay

Notes from the Winemaker - Australia is home to hundreds of hectares of land perfect for growing grapes. Mountain ranges, rivers, and coastal influences create varying mesoclimates that support a wide range of wine styles, many unique to Australia. This Chardonnay represents grapes selected from cooler mesoclimates. Vineyards are located approximately 120 meters above sea level and grow in alluvial red clay layered over silty loam. Vintage 2016 was touted as one of Australia’s best by winemakers. Conditions were a little drier than typical, which concentrated berries on the vine without drastically affecting yields.

For this Chardonnay, vines average 18-years-old and were able to access water reserves held in the clay soil. Harvest began in early February. Parcels were harvested during the night to protect the bright fruit notes of the grapes. The aromatics were further amplified by clarifying the pressed juice and cool fermentation temperatures. To add complexity, the wine was aged for two months in French oak. This allows the wine to retain its fruit while adding a hint of spice and roundness.  

This wine is pale straw with green highlights indicating some cooler growing conditions. Notes of lemon and lime are complemented by white peach and nutmeg followed by a good finish.