Description
When Stephen George first planted his three-hectare Ashton Hills vineyard in the early 1980’s, 12 different varieties went into the ground. Years of trials led to the removal of most of these vine types and today only Pinot Noir and Riesling remain on the Estate . This limited release Chardonnay is sourced from a small parcel of prized fruit from the Chapel Valley block, adjacent the old Piccadilly cemetery just down the road.
From the winery: “Commencing in 2017, we released the Ashton Hills Piccadilly Valley Chardonnay from fruit chosen off the Chapel Valley block adjacent to the old cemetery in Piccadilly Valley. The following year we added Chardonnay from the Quigley Block, a stones’ throw from the winery, so although no longer single vineyard, this chardonnay is crafted with texture and character, which are hallmark traits of the original AHV Chardonnays.”
About the 2022 release from the winemaker: “Reduced yields from the 2022 harvest were the result of poor fruit set due to a cold spring. This turned out to be a blessing, with a cool summer pushing the majority of our harvest into the last week of March and early April. Ripening of the small berries and bunches was long and slow which has resulted in wines with intense flavour, concentration and structure. Grapes were handpicked, chilled and gently pressed to a mix of new and used French oak, where fermentation was sparked by indigenous yeasts. The wine was aged in Burgundian oak both old and new for nine months. Lifted floral notes, white peach and a touch of yellow nectarine are entwined with a hint of cashew. The stone fruits continue onto the palate with green melon and citrus notes. The slatey acidity and hint of pithy phenolics provide a lovely texture and drive to the wine. The wine will drink well upon release and reward careful cellaring for five years or more. Try with Snapper fish with lemon, green olive and onion relish. 12% alc.”
RRP $52 Our Price $41.99
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