Ashbrook Verdelho 2023

Description

Ashbrook Estate is one of the oldest established wineries in the Margaret River region located in the heart of Wilyabrup. Truly family owned and operated since 1975, all wines are handpicked and crafted from only Estate grown fruit. All processing, winemaking, bottling and packaging are done on site using the Estate’s own private facilities. 2019 saw Ashbrook Estate complete its 41st Vintage, one of only 5 Margaret River wineries to do so! James Halliday says: “This estate is one of the quietest and highest achievers in Australia, maintaining excellent viticulture and fastidious winemaking.”

About this wine from the winemaker:  “Ashbrook Estate is one of the oldest established wineries in the Margaret River region located in the heart of Wilyabrup. Truly family owned and operated since 1975, all grapes are handpicked and wines crafted from only Estate grown fruit. All processing, winemaking, bottling and packaging are done on site using the Ashbrook’s private facilities. 2023 sees Ashbrook Estate complete its 45th consecutive vintage, one of only five Margaret River wineries to do so!

“After collecting cuttings from one of the oldest vineyards in the Swan Valley north east of Perth in 1976 the “Old Block” Verdelho was planted on Ashbrook Estate. Due to its popularity a second block was planted in 1987 which is affectionately known as the “Verdelho over the creek”. Originally all spur pruned on a VSP trellis, the majority was converted to cane pruned lyre trellis in 2010 with immediate and brilliant results. Coupled with the application of composted mulch over several years, the vineyard shows remarkable health and balance.

“According to our Wilyabrup weather station, we recorded above average cumulative rainfall (536.4mm) over the winter months of 2022. Below average temperatures from mid-July (through to February) meant the vines had an excellent dormancy, sluggish awakening and mild start to the growing season. Another 178.4mm of rainfall during spring (slightly above the 10-year average) left the vines in good stead for the very dry finish to ripening. Only 2.6mm rainfall was recorded over the summer months however, maximum daytime temperatures were average or below with no extreme heat events thanks to beautifully cool nights. The dry conditions and scarcity of Marri blossom meant netting the vines was essential to protect them from silvereye bird damage. We began harvesting Chardonnay on the 16th of February, one day later than the previous vintage, and had our last Petit Verdot grapes safely inside the winery by April 6th, before the rain arrived. The nine-week harvest period was our lengthiest in a while, thanks to bountiful yields, with all varieties except Riesling and Verdelho, above the ten-year average. The aroma and flavour intensity of the 2023 vintage, across the board, is nothing short of exceptional thanks to optimal dry weather conditions and impeccable vineyard health.

“Grapes were handpicked over two days in the cool of the morning. Destemming and pressing occurred immediately and the juice was cold settled and racked before inoculation and fermentation in stainless steel. Minimal fining with bentonite was carried out before cold stabilization, filtration and bottling. Made in an unwooded, dry style.

“Bright straw colour with hues of green. Lively passionfruit, guava and citrus zest jump out of the glass. The palate is infused with white nectarine, lychee and tropical fruits and laced with refreshing, lemony acidity. A perfect pairing to spicy, flavoursome cuisine. Will age beautifully. 13.5% alc”

RRP $29  *Our Special Price $21.50 when you buy 6 or more of this wine*