Felton Road Block 2 Chardonnay 2022

Beginning with meticulous site selection and vineyard design started in 1991, Felton Road’s story is one of refusal to compromise. A strict 100% estate policy with fully organic and biodynamic viticulture (Demeter certified) ensures their fruit arrives at the winery as pure as it can be, while their entire estate comes as close to true sustainability as is possible. Felton Road farms four properties totalling 32 ha in the Bannockburn sub-region of Central Otago. Chardonnay is mostly grown on the Elms vineyard in Blocks 2, 6, 8 & 9; plus approximately 10% coming from Cornish Point vineyard. There are a range of altitudes and aspects with the soils mostly deep alluvial schist gravels. Meticulous summer management of a single vertical shoot positioned (VSP) canopy ensures even and early fruit maturity. Mendoza clone Chardonnay from Block 2 was whole bunch pressed, settled overnight and flowed by gravity to barrel in the underground cellar. Fermentation with indigenous yeasts in seasoned French oak (only 4% new) was followed by a long and complete malolactic over the spring and summer. After 16 months in barrel (11 months on gross lees), the wine was carefully racked to tank for bottling in early September, 2023. Citrus blossom, lemon zest and hallmark elderflower aromas that are typical from the lower lying, sheltered and east sloping Block 2. The palate introduces delicate white peach and melon, leading to a very pure and restrained mid-palate. It’s fine, elegant and transparent: the schist soils making their mark. Indigenous yeast and malolactic, not fined or filtered, minimal influence of oak (all as usual), makes for a very precise and site expressive Chardonnay. The Finer Details Style – White Wine Varietal – Chardonnay Country – New Zealand Region – Central Otago Vintage – 2022 Bottle Size – 750ml ABV – 14% Other – Organic & Biodynamic Closure – Screw Cap