Chardonnay

Orange

2023

White Wine

Chardonnay

750mL

12.8%

3.4

6.2

5% New oak 85% Mature oak 10% Tank

Screw Cap

Heifer Station vineyard is situated between 860-900m elevation on the undulating slopes of Mt Canobolas. Since 1999 the vineyard has a history of producing high quality Chardonnay. Chardonnay is one of the more prolific varieties grown on the property.

2018 was year of challenge and reward for the Orange region and Heifer Station. Adequate winter rainfall removed the need for supplementary irrigation until heatwaves in January required small amounts to reduce sunburn and replenish carbohydrates. Balanced nutrition, well timed shoot thinning and leaf plucking ensured optimal tannin ripeness in reds and reduced phenolics in whites proving a brilliant Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Shiraz vintage. Yields were average to high, while acid retention was brilliant right up to harvest reducing the need for winery additions. Heatwaves in January and hail weeks before harvest threw curve balls to the vineyard team, but the resilient vines withstood the challenge and all varieties reached the crusher in great condition.

Different parcels of chardonnay from the eastern most block at Heifer Station are selected to create this elegant cool climate wine. Matured mainly in barrel for 8 months, fermented on wild yeast and battonaged on lees regularly to create texture and mouth feel

The wine displays fresh acidity & citrus notes whilst the later picked parcel provides a lovely riper stone fruit character.

Reward with medium term cellaring