Description
Duane Coates is one of the quiet achievers of the Australian Wine Scene ( Masters in Oenology and an MBA from Adelaide University & soon to become a Master of Wine). His winemaking philosophy is simple: the highest quality fruit from sustainable vineyards (some organic), harvest when properly ripe and a natural winemaking approach (minimal intervention – wild yeasts, unfined, no additions of tannin, enzyme and acid).
Huon Hooke said: “ Every wine I’ve tasted of McLaren Vale’s Duane Coates has been excellent…” Highly impressive wines – a style that bridges the gap between fruit driven Australian style and savoury complex wines of old world Europe. Lisa Perrotti-Brown, from leading international website erobertparker.com said – “..a breath of fresh air in this area where a lot of producers seem to be following the herd down that incredibly ripe and sometimes over-ripe path that has caused not a few producers to come unstuck in heat-wave and drought conditions. These are superbly-crafted, well-priced wines that are wholeheartedly recommended’.
2012 was a terrific growing season with no adverse weather- grapes were sourced from the cool climate of Gumeracha (Adelaide Hills) followed by ‘hands off” approach” to winemaking using natural yeast fermentation in Allier & Troncais french oak. Maturation for 14 to 15 mths in barrel ( similar oak regime to Penfolds Yattarna!)
This top shelf chardonnay (very old school burgundy) reeks of elegance, power and delicacy …..White peach, citrus supported by more-ish prosciutto and roast cashew nut characters…Superb line and length!
RRP $38
