| ELSPETH CHARDONNAY 2008Vintage: 2008 Variety: Chardonnay Area: Gimblett Gravels Winemakers: Tim Preston & Paul Dawick Alcohol: 14% Tasting Note: This fine single vineyard Chardonnay was produced from grapes handpicked from our Mere Road vineyard, in the renowned Gimblett Gravels of Hawkes Bay. They were whole-bunch pressed, with half immediately placed to barrel and the remainder to barrel after 24 hours settling, then barrel fermented in 80% new and 20% 1 year old quality French oak barriques. Fifty percent of the wine was treated to malolactic fermentation to soften and enhance texture. The wine was then barrel aged for 11 months sur lie, with frequent battonage for enhanced complexity. Bottling followed on 20th February 2009 under screwcap closure. This powerful refined Chardonnay is fragrant and mouthfilling, with a rich creamy texture and layered flavours of intense tropical fruit and lemon peel, hints of nougat and butterscotch seasoned with delicate spicy oak. An elegant and beautifully poised wine, the finish is satisfyingly persistent, soft and dry. Delicious in its youth, it will also flourish with cellaring. Ideal food matches include fish, smoked foods and poultry garnished with rich sauces.
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